1996 BMW M3 vs. 2005 Jaguar XK
To start off, 2005 Jaguar XK is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW M3 would be higher. At 4,195 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Jaguar XK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW M3 (326 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 2005 Jaguar XK. (294 HP @ 6150 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Jaguar XK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Jaguar XK weights approximately 126 kg more than 1996 BMW M3.
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, 2005 Jaguar XK (411 Nm) has 106 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW M3. (305 Nm). This means 2005 Jaguar XK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW M3 | 2005 Jaguar XK | |
| Make | BMW | Jaguar |
| Model | M3 | XK |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3001 cc | 4195 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 326 HP | 294 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6150 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 411 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.2 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.9 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1588 kg | 1714 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2590 mm |
