1996 Jaguar XK8 vs. 1986 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1996 Jaguar XK8 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Volkswagen Passat 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 @ 6150 RPM) has 155 more horse power than 1986 Volkswagen Passat. (136 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Jaguar XK8 should accelerate faster than 1986 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Jaguar XK8 weights approximately 493 kg more than 1986 Volkswagen Passat. 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, 1986 Volkswagen Passat, 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 208 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Volkswagen Passat. (185 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 Jaguar XK8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Jaguar XK8 | 1986 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Jaguar | Volkswagen |
| Model | XK8 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3996 cc | 2226 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 291 HP | 136 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6150 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 393 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1653 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 40 L |
