1996 Jaguar XK8 vs. 1978 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1996 Jaguar XK8 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,996 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Jaguar XK8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Jaguar XK8 (291 HP) has 242 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. (49 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Jaguar XK8 should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Jaguar XK8 weights approximately 823 kg more than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Jaguar XK8 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 XK8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Volkswagen Golf, 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 XK8 (393 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 312 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. (81 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Jaguar XK8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. 1996 Jaguar XK8 has automatic transmission and 1978 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1978 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Jaguar XK8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Jaguar XK8 | 1978 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Jaguar | Volkswagen |
Model | XK8 | Golf |
Year Released | 1996 | 1978 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3996 cc | 1471 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 291 HP | 49 HP |
Torque | 393 Nm | 81 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 76.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 80 mm |
Top Speed | 251 km/hour | 138 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1653 kg | 830 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 3730 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2410 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 45 L |