1991 Jaguar XJS vs. 1983 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1991 Jaguar XJS is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 5,342 cc (12 cylinders), 1991 Jaguar XJS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Jaguar XJS (291 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 232 more horse power than 1983 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Jaguar XJS should accelerate faster than 1983 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Jaguar XJS weights approximately 990 kg more than 1983 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1991 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 1991 Jaguar XJS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 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, 1991 Jaguar XJS (440 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 340 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Volkswagen Passat. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1991 Jaguar XJS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Jaguar XJS | 1983 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Jaguar | Volkswagen |
| Model | XJS | Passat |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1983 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5342 cc | 1295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 291 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 440 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1930 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2560 mm |
