1989 Jaguar XJS vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat

To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat 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 5,343 cc (12 cylinders), 1989 Jaguar XJS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Jaguar XJS (291 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 153 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Jaguar XJS should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Jaguar XJS weights approximately 345 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. 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 Volkswagen Passat, 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 (440 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. (320 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1989 Jaguar XJS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Passat. 2008 Volkswagen Passat has automatic transmission and 1989 Jaguar XJS has manual transmission. 1989 Jaguar XJS will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1989 Jaguar XJS 2008 Volkswagen Passat
Make Jaguar Volkswagen
Model XJS Passat
Year Released 1989 2008
Body Type Convertible Station Wagon
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 5343 cc 1968 cc
Engine Cylinders 12 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 2 valves
Horse Power 291 HP 138 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 440 Nm 320 Nm
Torque RPM 3250 RPM 1800 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Diesel
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1930 kg 1585 kg
Vehicle Length 4770 mm 4780 mm
Vehicle Width 1800 mm 1830 mm
Vehicle Height 1260 mm 1520 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 82 L 70 L