1996 Jaguar XK8 vs. 1979 Porsche 936
To start off, 1996 Jaguar XK8 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Porsche 936. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Porsche 936 would be higher. At 3,996 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Jaguar XK8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Porsche 936 (573 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 282 more horse power than 1996 Jaguar XK8. (291 HP @ 6150 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Porsche 936 should accelerate faster than 1996 Jaguar XK8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Jaguar XK8 weights approximately 951 kg more than 1979 Porsche 936.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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. 1996 Jaguar XK8 has automatic transmission and 1979 Porsche 936 has manual transmission. 1979 Porsche 936 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 | 1979 Porsche 936 | |
| Make | Jaguar | Porsche |
| Model | XK8 | 936 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 3996 cc | 2142 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 291 HP | 573 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6150 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1653 kg | 702 kg |
