2002 Jaguar XJR vs. 1981 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2002 Jaguar XJR is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 4,196 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Jaguar XJR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Jaguar XJR (390 HP) has 331 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Jaguar XJR should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Jaguar XJR weights approximately 725 kg more than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Jaguar XJR 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 2002 Jaguar XJR. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Volkswagen Passat, 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, 2002 Jaguar XJR (525 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 425 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2002 Jaguar XJR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Jaguar XJR | 1981 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Jaguar | Volkswagen |
| Model | XJR | Passat |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4196 cc | 1295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 390 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 525 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.3 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.1:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1665 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2910 mm | 2560 mm |
