1997 Jaguar XK8 vs. 1982 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1997 Jaguar XK8 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Volkswagen Golf 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 181 more horse power than 1982 Volkswagen Golf. (109 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Jaguar XK8 should accelerate faster than 1982 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 1997 Jaguar XK8 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1997 Jaguar XK8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1982 Volkswagen Golf, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 240 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Volkswagen Golf. (153 Nm). This means 1997 Jaguar XK8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Volkswagen Golf. 1997 Jaguar XK8 has automatic transmission and 1982 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1982 Volkswagen Golf 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 | 1982 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Jaguar | Volkswagen |
| Model | XK8 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1982 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3996 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 290 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 393 Nm | 153 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.1 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2410 mm |
