2003 Jaguar XJ vs. 2005 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Jaguar XJ. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Jaguar XJ would be higher. At 4,195 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Jaguar XJ is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Jaguar XJ (294 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 181 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen Golf. (113 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Jaguar XJ should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Jaguar XJ weights approximately 319 kg more than 2005 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Jaguar XJ 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 2003 Jaguar XJ. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 2003 Jaguar XJ (411 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 256 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volkswagen Golf. (155 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Jaguar XJ will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volkswagen Golf. 2003 Jaguar XJ has automatic transmission and 2005 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2005 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Jaguar XJ will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Jaguar XJ | 2005 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Jaguar | Volkswagen |
| Model | XJ | Golf |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4195 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 294 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 411 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.3 mm | 86.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 1296 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3040 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 55 L |
