1989 Jaguar XJS vs. 2008 Audi A3
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Jaguar XJS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Jaguar XJS would be higher. At 3,980 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Jaguar XJS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Jaguar XJS (235 HP @ 4750 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Jaguar XJS should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Jaguar XJS weights approximately 298 kg more than 2008 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 Jaguar XJS 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 XJS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3, 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 XJS (387 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 1989 Jaguar XJS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Jaguar XJS | 2008 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Jaguar | Audi |
| Model | XJS | A3 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3980 cc | 1968 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 235 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 387 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 91 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 102 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Top Speed | 224 km/hour | 207 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1750 kg | 1452 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2580 mm |
