2001 Audi A8 vs. 1988 Jaguar XJS

To start off, 2001 Audi A8 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Jaguar XJS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Jaguar XJS would be higher. At 3,590 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Jaguar XJS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Jaguar XJS (219 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 2001 Audi A8. (190 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Jaguar XJS should accelerate faster than 2001 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Jaguar XJS weights approximately 120 kg more than 2001 Audi A8. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1988 Jaguar XJS 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 1988 Jaguar XJS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Audi A8, 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, 1988 Jaguar XJS (331 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Audi A8. (280 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1988 Jaguar XJS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Audi A8. 2001 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 1988 Jaguar XJS has manual transmission. 1988 Jaguar XJS will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2001 Audi A8 1988 Jaguar XJS
Make Audi Jaguar
Model A8 XJS
Year Released 2001 1988
Body Type Sedan Convertible
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2770 cc 3590 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 5 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 190 HP 219 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 5300 RPM
Torque 280 Nm 331 Nm
Torque RPM 3200 RPM 4000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1510 kg 1630 kg
Vehicle Length 5170 mm 4770 mm
Vehicle Width 1890 mm 1800 mm
Vehicle Height 1450 mm 1260 mm
Wheelbase Size 3020 mm 2600 mm