1989 Jaguar XJR vs. 1978 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1989 Jaguar XJR is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 5,996 cc (12 cylinders), 1989 Jaguar XJR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Jaguar XJR (318 HP) has 269 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. (49 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Jaguar XJR should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Jaguar XJR weights approximately 970 kg more than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 Jaguar XJR is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1989 Jaguar XJR. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Volkswagen Golf, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1989 Jaguar XJR (476 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 395 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. (81 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1989 Jaguar XJR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. 1989 Jaguar XJR has automatic transmission and 1978 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1978 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1989 Jaguar XJR will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Jaguar XJR | 1978 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Jaguar | Volkswagen |
| Model | XJR | Golf |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 5996 cc | 1471 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 318 HP | 49 HP |
| Torque | 476 Nm | 81 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90.1 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.5 mm | 80 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1800 kg | 830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 3730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 91 L | 45 L |
