1997 Jaguar XK vs. 1988 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1997 Jaguar XK is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,996 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Jaguar XK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Jaguar XK (290 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 133 more horse power than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. (157 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Jaguar XK should accelerate faster than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Jaguar XK weights approximately 375 kg more than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Jaguar XK. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Volkswagen Golf 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, 1997 Jaguar XK (393 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 168 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. (225 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1997 Jaguar XK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. 1997 Jaguar XK has automatic transmission and 1988 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1988 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Jaguar XK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Jaguar XK | 1988 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Jaguar | Volkswagen |
| Model | XK | Golf |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3996 cc | 1763 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 290 HP | 157 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 393 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 251 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1570 kg | 1195 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3040 mm | 2490 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 55 L |
