1997 Jaguar XK8 vs. 2008 Smart Roadster
To start off, 2008 Smart Roadster is newer by 11 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.
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 283 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Smart Roadster. (110 Nm). This means 1997 Jaguar XK8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Smart Roadster.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Jaguar XK8 | 2008 Smart Roadster | |
| Make | Jaguar | Smart |
| Model | XK8 | Roadster |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 3996 cc | 698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 290 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 393 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 3430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2370 mm |
