2003 Jaguar XK vs. 2009 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Jaguar XK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Jaguar XK would be higher. At 3,996 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Jaguar XK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Jaguar XK (290 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 176 more horse power than 2009 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Jaguar XK should accelerate faster than 2009 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 607 kg more than 2003 Jaguar XK.
Because 2003 Jaguar XK 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 XK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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 XK (393 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 223 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Volkswagen Golf. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2003 Jaguar XK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Volkswagen Golf. 2003 Jaguar XK has automatic transmission and 2009 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2009 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Jaguar XK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Jaguar XK | 2009 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Jaguar | Volkswagen |
| Model | XK | Golf |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3996 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 290 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 393 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1700 kg | 2307 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 55 L |
