1989 Jaguar XJS vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 23 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 3,590 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Jaguar XJS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Jaguar XJS (217 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (140 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Jaguar XJS should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Jaguar XJS weights approximately 272 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. 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, 2012 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 XJS (331 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 1989 Jaguar XJS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. 2012 Volkswagen Golf 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. 2012 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1989 Jaguar XJS | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Jaguar | Volkswagen |
Model | XJS | Golf |
Year Released | 1989 | 2012 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3590 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 217 HP | 140 HP |
Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 331 Nm | 320 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1358 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4199 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1786 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1480 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2578 mm |