1998 Jaguar XK vs. 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Jaguar XK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Jaguar XK would be higher. At 3,995 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Jaguar XK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Jaguar XK (290 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 122 more horse power than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. (168 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Jaguar XK should accelerate faster than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Jaguar XK weights approximately 300 kg more than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. 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, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle, 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 (393 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 168 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. (225 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1998 Jaguar XK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. 1998 Jaguar XK has automatic transmission and 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle has manual transmission. 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Jaguar XK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Jaguar XK | 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Jaguar | Volkswagen |
| Model | XK | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3995 cc | 2324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 290 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 393 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1570 kg | 1270 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3040 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 55 L |
