2003 Jaguar XK vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 9 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 4,196 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Jaguar XK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Jaguar XK (390 HP @ 6150 RPM) has 270 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (120 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Jaguar XK should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Jaguar XK weights approximately 341 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2012 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 (525 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 325 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (200 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2003 Jaguar XK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. 2003 Jaguar XK has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2012 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 | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Jaguar | Volkswagen |
| Model | XK | Golf |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4196 cc | 1400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 390 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6150 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 525 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1735 kg | 1394 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4534 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1781 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1504 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 55 L |
