1998 Jaguar XK vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 14 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 201 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (89 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Jaguar XK should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Jaguar XK weights approximately 256 kg more than 2012 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, 2012 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 (393 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 163 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (230 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 1998 Jaguar XK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. 1998 Jaguar XK has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2012 Volkswagen Golf 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 | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Jaguar | Volkswagen |
| Model | XK | Golf |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3995 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 290 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 393 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 251 km/hour | 177 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1570 kg | 1314 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4199 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3040 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.5 L/100km | 4.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 55 L |
