1996 Jaguar XK vs. 2002 Vauxhall Astra
To start off, 2002 Vauxhall Astra is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Jaguar XK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Jaguar XK 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 270 more horse power than 2002 Vauxhall Astra. (100 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Jaguar XK should accelerate faster than 2002 Vauxhall Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Jaguar XK weights approximately 290 kg more than 2002 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, 2002 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 375 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Vauxhall Astra. (150 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1996 Jaguar XK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Vauxhall Astra. 1996 Jaguar XK has automatic transmission and 2002 Vauxhall Astra has manual transmission. 2002 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 | 2002 Vauxhall Astra | |
| Make | Jaguar | Vauxhall |
| Model | XK | Astra |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3996 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 370 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6150 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 525 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1640 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2620 mm |
