1996 Ford Escort vs. 2003 Jaguar XK
To start off, 2003 Jaguar XK is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Ford Escort would be higher. At 3,994 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Jaguar XK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Jaguar XK (290 HP) has 216 more horse power than 1996 Ford Escort. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Jaguar XK should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Jaguar XK weights approximately 490 kg more than 1996 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Jaguar XK 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 2003 Jaguar XK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Ford Escort, 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, 2003 Jaguar XK (393 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 279 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Escort. (114 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2003 Jaguar XK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Escort. 2003 Jaguar XK has automatic transmission and 1996 Ford Escort has manual transmission. 1996 Ford Escort will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Jaguar XK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Escort | 2003 Jaguar XK | |
| Make | Ford | Jaguar |
| Model | Escort | XK |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1391 cc | 3994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 290 HP |
| Torque | 114 Nm | 393 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1570 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1300 mm |
