2003 Alpina Roadster vs. 1997 Jaguar XK8
To start off, 2003 Alpina Roadster is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Jaguar XK8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Jaguar XK8 would be higher. At 3,996 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Jaguar XK8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alpina Roadster (301 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1997 Jaguar XK8. (290 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alpina Roadster should accelerate faster than 1997 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, 1997 Jaguar XK8 (393 Nm) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Alpina Roadster. (362 Nm). This means 1997 Jaguar XK8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Alpina Roadster. 1997 Jaguar XK8 has automatic transmission and 2003 Alpina Roadster has manual transmission. 2003 Alpina Roadster will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Jaguar XK8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alpina Roadster | 1997 Jaguar XK8 | |
| Make | Alpina | Jaguar |
| Model | Roadster | XK8 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3346 cc | 3996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 301 HP | 290 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 362 Nm | 393 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93.8 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2590 mm |
