1997 Jaguar XK8 vs. 1998 Alfa Romeo 155
To start off, 1998 Alfa Romeo 155 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Jaguar XK8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Jaguar XK8 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 172 more horse power than 1998 Alfa Romeo 155. (118 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Jaguar XK8 should accelerate faster than 1998 Alfa Romeo 155.
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, 1998 Alfa Romeo 155, 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 249 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Alfa Romeo 155. (144 Nm). This means 1997 Jaguar XK8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Alfa Romeo 155. 1997 Jaguar XK8 has automatic transmission and 1998 Alfa Romeo 155 has manual transmission. 1998 Alfa Romeo 155 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 | 1998 Alfa Romeo 155 | |
| Make | Jaguar | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | XK8 | 155 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3996 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 290 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 393 Nm | 144 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.1 mm | 75.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1450 mm |
