2001 Jaguar XK8 vs. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Jaguar XK8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Jaguar XK8 would be higher. At 3,996 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Jaguar XK8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Jaguar XK8 (390 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 291 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. (99 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Jaguar XK8 should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Jaguar XK8 weights approximately 396 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 Jaguar XK8 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 2001 Jaguar XK8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2001 Jaguar XK8 (542 Nm) has 302 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. (240 Nm). This means 2001 Jaguar XK8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. 2001 Jaguar XK8 has automatic transmission and 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle has manual transmission. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Jaguar XK8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Jaguar XK8 | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Jaguar | Volkswagen |
| Model | XK8 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3996 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 390 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 542 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1710 kg | 1314 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2510 mm |
