1998 Jaguar XKR vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Jaguar XKR. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Jaguar XKR would be higher. At 3,996 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Jaguar XKR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Jaguar XKR (370 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 296 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Jaguar XKR should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Jaguar XKR weights approximately 391 kg more than 2004 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 XKR 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 XKR. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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 XKR (541 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 416 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (125 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1998 Jaguar XKR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. 1998 Jaguar XKR has automatic transmission and 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle has manual transmission. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Jaguar XKR will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Jaguar XKR | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Jaguar | Volkswagen |
| Model | XKR | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3996 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 370 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 541 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1722 kg | 1331 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 55 L |
