2002 Jaguar XK8 vs. 1989 Jaguar XJS
To start off, 2002 Jaguar XK8 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Jaguar XJS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Jaguar XJS would be higher. At 5,343 cc (12 cylinders), 1989 Jaguar XJS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Jaguar XK8 (300 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1989 Jaguar XJS. (291 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Jaguar XK8 should accelerate faster than 1989 Jaguar XJS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Jaguar XJS weights approximately 245 kg more than 2002 Jaguar XK8.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1989 Jaguar XJS (440 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Jaguar XK8. (420 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 1989 Jaguar XJS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Jaguar XK8. 2002 Jaguar XK8 has automatic transmission and 1989 Jaguar XJS has manual transmission. 1989 Jaguar XJS will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Jaguar XK8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Jaguar XK8 | 1989 Jaguar XJS | |
| Make | Jaguar | Jaguar |
| Model | XK8 | XJS |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4195 cc | 5343 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 300 HP | 291 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 420 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1685 kg | 1930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 82 L |
