1997 Jaguar XK8 vs. 1996 Volvo V40
To start off, 1997 Jaguar XK8 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo V40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo V40 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 186 more horse power than 1996 Volvo V40. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Jaguar XK8 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo V40.
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, 1996 Volvo V40, 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 250 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo V40. (143 Nm). This means 1997 Jaguar XK8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo V40. 1997 Jaguar XK8 has automatic transmission and 1996 Volvo V40 has manual transmission. 1996 Volvo V40 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 | 1996 Volvo V40 | |
| Make | Jaguar | Volvo |
| Model | XK8 | V40 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3996 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 290 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 393 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2570 mm |
