1999 Jaguar XJ vs. 1979 Vauxhall Astra
To start off, 1999 Jaguar XJ is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Vauxhall Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Vauxhall Astra would be higher. At 3,996 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 Jaguar XJ is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Jaguar XJ (290 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 216 more horse power than 1979 Vauxhall Astra. (74 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Jaguar XJ should accelerate faster than 1979 Vauxhall Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Jaguar XJ weights approximately 855 kg more than 1979 Vauxhall Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 Jaguar XJ 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 1999 Jaguar XJ. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 Vauxhall 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, 1999 Jaguar XJ (393 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 292 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Vauxhall Astra. (101 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1999 Jaguar XJ will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Vauxhall Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Jaguar XJ | 1979 Vauxhall Astra | |
| Make | Jaguar | Vauxhall |
| Model | XJ | Astra |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3996 cc | 1296 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 290 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 393 Nm | 101 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1710 kg | 855 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5160 mm | 4010 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2520 mm |
