1998 Audi A3 vs. 1986 Jaguar XJS
To start off, 1998 Audi A3 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Jaguar XJS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Jaguar XJS would be higher. At 3,590 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 Jaguar XJS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Jaguar XJS (217 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 1998 Audi A3. (100 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Jaguar XJS should accelerate faster than 1998 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Jaguar XJS weights approximately 490 kg more than 1998 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 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 1986 Jaguar XJS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Audi A3, 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, 1986 Jaguar XJS (331 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 187 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Audi A3. (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1986 Jaguar XJS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Audi A3 | 1986 Jaguar XJS | |
| Make | Audi | Jaguar |
| Model | A3 | XJS |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 3590 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 331 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 91.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 92 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2600 mm |
