2002 Jaguar XK8 vs. 1981 Subaru Coupe
To start off, 2002 Jaguar XK8 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Subaru Coupe. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Subaru Coupe would be higher. At 4,195 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Jaguar XK8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Jaguar XK8 (300 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 233 more horse power than 1981 Subaru Coupe. (67 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Jaguar XK8 should accelerate faster than 1981 Subaru Coupe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Jaguar XK8 weights approximately 770 kg more than 1981 Subaru Coupe. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 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 2002 Jaguar XK8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Subaru Coupe, 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 XK8 (420 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 306 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Subaru Coupe. (114 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2002 Jaguar XK8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Subaru Coupe.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Jaguar XK8 | 1981 Subaru Coupe | |
| Make | Jaguar | Subaru |
| Model | XK8 | Coupe |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4195 cc | 1593 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 300 HP | 67 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 420 Nm | 114 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 91.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.3 mm | 60 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1685 kg | 915 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2470 mm |
