1996 BMW M3 vs. 1951 Jaguar XK
To start off, 1996 BMW M3 is newer by 45 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1951 Jaguar XK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1951 Jaguar XK would be higher. At 3,442 cc (6 cylinders), 1951 Jaguar XK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW M3 (326 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 168 more horse power than 1951 Jaguar XK. (158 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1951 Jaguar XK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW M3 weights approximately 292 kg more than 1951 Jaguar XK. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1996 BMW M3 (305 Nm) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1951 Jaguar XK. (290 Nm). This means 1996 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1951 Jaguar XK.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW M3 | 1951 Jaguar XK | |
| Make | BMW | Jaguar |
| Model | M3 | XK |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1951 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3001 cc | 3442 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 326 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 290 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.2 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.9 mm | 106 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1588 kg | 1296 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1570 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2600 mm |
