1997 Jaguar XK8 vs. 2006 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 9 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 142 more horse power than 2006 Volkswagen Passat. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Jaguar XK8 should accelerate faster than 2006 Volkswagen Passat.
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, 2006 Volkswagen Passat, 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 193 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Volkswagen Passat. (200 Nm). This means 1997 Jaguar XK8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Volkswagen Passat. 1997 Jaguar XK8 has automatic transmission and 2006 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 2006 Volkswagen Passat 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 | 2006 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Jaguar | Volkswagen |
| Model | XK8 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3996 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 290 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 393 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 236 km/hour | 208 km/hour |
| 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 | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2720 mm |
