1997 BMW M3 vs. 2006 Jaguar XJ
To start off, 2006 Jaguar XJ is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW M3 would be higher. At 4,195 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Jaguar XJ is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Jaguar XJ (400 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 160 more horse power than 1997 BMW M3. (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Jaguar XJ should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Jaguar XJ weights approximately 320 kg more than 1997 BMW M3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2006 Jaguar XJ (561 Nm) has 325 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW M3. (236 Nm). This means 2006 Jaguar XJ will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW M3. 2006 Jaguar XJ has automatic transmission and 1997 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 1997 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Jaguar XJ will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW M3 | 2006 Jaguar XJ | |
| Make | BMW | Jaguar |
| Model | M3 | XJ |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 4195 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 400 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 561 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1620 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 5220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1950 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 3170 mm |
