1997 BMW M3 vs. 1987 Jaguar XJS
To start off, 1997 BMW M3 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Jaguar XJS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Jaguar XJS would be higher. At 3,590 cc (6 cylinders), 1987 Jaguar XJS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1987 Jaguar XJS. (217 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1987 Jaguar XJS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Jaguar XJS weights approximately 330 kg more than 1997 BMW M3.
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. Let's talk about torque, 1987 Jaguar XJS (331 Nm) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW M3. (236 Nm). This means 1987 Jaguar XJS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW M3 | 1987 Jaguar XJS | |
| Make | BMW | Jaguar |
| Model | M3 | XJS |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 3590 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 331 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2600 mm |
