1997 Jaguar XK8 vs. 1972 Opel Manta

To start off, 1997 Jaguar XK8 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Opel Manta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Opel Manta would be higher. At 3,996 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Jaguar XK8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Jaguar XK8 (290 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 231 more horse power than 1972 Opel Manta. (59 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Jaguar XK8 should accelerate faster than 1972 Opel Manta.

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, 1997 Jaguar XK8 (393 Nm) has 303 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Opel Manta. (90 Nm). This means 1997 Jaguar XK8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Opel Manta. 1997 Jaguar XK8 has automatic transmission and 1972 Opel Manta has manual transmission. 1972 Opel Manta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Jaguar XK8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1997 Jaguar XK8 1972 Opel Manta
Make Jaguar Opel
Model XK8 Manta
Year Released 1997 1972
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3996 cc 1196 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 290 HP 59 HP
Engine RPM 6100 RPM 5400 RPM
Torque 393 Nm 90 Nm
Engine Bore Size 86.1 mm 79 mm
Engine Stroke Size 86.1 mm 61 mm
Drive Type Rear Rear
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 4 seats 4 seats
Vehicle Length 4770 mm 4300 mm
Vehicle Width 1840 mm 1640 mm
Vehicle Height 1310 mm 1360 mm
Wheelbase Size 2590 mm 2440 mm