1998 Jaguar XJ8 vs. 2001 Opel Astra
To start off, 2001 Opel Astra is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Jaguar XJ8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Jaguar XJ8 would be higher. At 3,981 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Jaguar XJ8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Jaguar XJ8 (290 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 148 more horse power than 2001 Opel Astra. (142 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Jaguar XJ8 should accelerate faster than 2001 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Jaguar XJ8 weights approximately 610 kg more than 2001 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Jaguar XJ8 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 1998 Jaguar XJ8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Opel Astra, 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, 1998 Jaguar XJ8 (525 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 322 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Opel Astra. (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Jaguar XJ8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Jaguar XJ8 | 2001 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Jaguar | Opel |
| Model | XJ8 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3981 cc | 2198 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 290 HP | 142 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 525 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.1 mm | 94.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1790 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2920 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 87 L | 52 L |
