2004 BMW M3 vs. 1987 Jaguar XJS
To start off, 2004 BMW M3 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Jaguar XJS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Jaguar XJS would be higher. At 3,588 cc (6 cylinders), 1987 Jaguar XJS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW M3 (317 HP @ 7250 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1987 Jaguar XJS. (217 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1987 Jaguar XJS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW M3 weights approximately 145 kg more than 1987 Jaguar XJS. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2004 BMW M3 (355 Nm) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Jaguar XJS. (325 Nm). This means 2004 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Jaguar XJS.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW M3 | 1987 Jaguar XJS | |
| Make | BMW | Jaguar |
| Model | M3 | XJS |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1987 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3169 cc | 3588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 317 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7250 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 325 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 92 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1775 kg | 1630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2790 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 90 L |
