1996 Jaguar XK vs. 2003 Opel Astra
To start off, 2003 Opel Astra is newer by 7 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 (290 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 145 more horse power than 2003 Opel Astra. (145 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Jaguar XK should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Jaguar XK weights approximately 402 kg more than 2003 Opel 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, 2003 Opel 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 (393 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 190 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Astra. (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Jaguar XK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Jaguar XK | 2003 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Jaguar | Opel |
| Model | XK | Astra |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3996 cc | 2198 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 290 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 393 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 94.6 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1700 kg | 1298 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 52 L |
