2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1985 Jaguar XJS
To start off, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Jaguar XJS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Jaguar XJS would be higher. At 5,343 cc (12 cylinders), 1985 Jaguar XJS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Jaguar XJS (280 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 162 more horse power than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. (118 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Jaguar XJS should accelerate faster than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Jaguar XJS weights approximately 390 kg more than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 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 1985 Jaguar XJS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156, 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, 1985 Jaguar XJS (432 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 286 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. (146 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1985 Jaguar XJS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1985 Jaguar XJS | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Jaguar |
| Model | 156 | XJS |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 5343 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 280 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 432 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 11.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1780 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 82 L |
