2003 Ford Ka vs. 1985 Jaguar XJS
To start off, 2003 Ford Ka is newer by 18 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 221 more horse power than 2003 Ford Ka. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Jaguar XJS should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Jaguar XJS weights approximately 818 kg more than 2003 Ford Ka. 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, 2003 Ford Ka, 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 333 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Ka. (99 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1985 Jaguar XJS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Ka | 1985 Jaguar XJS | |
| Make | Ford | Jaguar |
| Model | Ka | XJS |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 5343 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 280 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 99 Nm | 432 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 11.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 962 kg | 1780 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 82 L |
