1998 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1981 Jaguar XJS
To start off, 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Jaguar XJS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Jaguar XJS would be higher. At 5,344 cc (12 cylinders), 1981 Jaguar XJS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Jaguar XJS (299 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 195 more horse power than 1998 Alfa Romeo 156. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Jaguar XJS should accelerate faster than 1998 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Jaguar XJS weights approximately 437 kg more than 1998 Alfa Romeo 156. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Jaguar XJS 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 1981 Jaguar XJS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Alfa Romeo 156, 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, 1981 Jaguar XJS (431 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 176 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Alfa Romeo 156. (255 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1981 Jaguar XJS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Alfa Romeo 156. 1981 Jaguar XJS has automatic transmission and 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 has manual transmission. 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Jaguar XJS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1981 Jaguar XJS | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Jaguar |
Model | 156 | XJS |
Year Released | 1998 | 1981 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1910 cc | 5344 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 104 HP | 299 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 255 Nm | 431 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 1707 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4880 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1270 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2600 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 90 L |