1996 Jaguar XK8 vs. 2012 Audi A3
To start off, 2012 Audi A3 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Jaguar XK8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Jaguar XK8 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 91 more horse power than 2012 Audi A3. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Jaguar XK8 should accelerate faster than 2012 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Jaguar XK8 weights approximately 83 kg more than 2012 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Audi A3 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Jaguar XK8. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Audi A3 will offer significantly more control. 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 113 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Audi A3. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1996 Jaguar XK8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Jaguar XK8 | 2012 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Jaguar | Audi |
| Model | XK8 | A3 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3996 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 291 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6150 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 393 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1653 kg | 1570 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1763 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1422 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 60 L |
