1999 Jaguar XK vs. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 1999 Jaguar XK is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 3,996 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 Jaguar XK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Jaguar XK (290 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 228 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (62 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Jaguar XK should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Jaguar XK weights approximately 890 kg more than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 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 1999 Jaguar XK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit, 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 XK (393 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 289 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (104 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 Jaguar XK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Jaguar XK | 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Jaguar | Volkswagen |
| Model | XK | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3996 cc | 1455 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 290 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 393 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1700 kg | 810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2410 mm |
