1998 Jaguar XK vs. 1980 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1998 Jaguar XK is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,996 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Jaguar XK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Jaguar XK (445 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 392 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Golf. (53 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Jaguar XK should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Jaguar XK weights approximately 690 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Jaguar XK 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 XK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Volkswagen Golf, 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 XK (615 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 515 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Golf. (100 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 1998 Jaguar XK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Jaguar XK | 1980 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Jaguar | Volkswagen |
| Model | XK | Golf |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3996 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 445 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 615 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1565 kg | 875 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1140 mm | 1420 mm |
