1996 Jaguar XK vs. 1984 Vauxhall Astra
To start off, 1996 Jaguar XK is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Vauxhall Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Vauxhall Astra would be higher. At 3,996 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Jaguar XK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Jaguar XK (370 HP @ 6150 RPM) has 311 more horse power than 1984 Vauxhall Astra. (59 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Jaguar XK should accelerate faster than 1984 Vauxhall Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Jaguar XK weights approximately 800 kg more than 1984 Vauxhall Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 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 1996 Jaguar XK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 Vauxhall Astra, 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, 1996 Jaguar XK (525 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 436 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Vauxhall Astra. (89 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Jaguar XK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Vauxhall Astra. 1996 Jaguar XK has automatic transmission and 1984 Vauxhall Astra has manual transmission. 1984 Vauxhall Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Jaguar XK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Jaguar XK | 1984 Vauxhall Astra | |
| Make | Jaguar | Vauxhall |
| Model | XK | Astra |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1984 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3996 cc | 1196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 370 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6150 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 525 Nm | 89 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.1 mm | 61 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1640 kg | 840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4010 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2520 mm |
