2004 Caterham 7 vs. 1983 Jaguar XJS
To start off, 2004 Caterham 7 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Jaguar XJS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Jaguar XJS would be higher. At 3,590 cc (6 cylinders), 1983 Jaguar XJS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Caterham 7 (251 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1983 Jaguar XJS. (226 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 1983 Jaguar XJS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Jaguar XJS weights approximately 1190 kg more than 2004 Caterham 7.
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, 1983 Jaguar XJS (325 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Caterham 7. (258 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1983 Jaguar XJS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Caterham 7.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Caterham 7 | 1983 Jaguar XJS | |
| Make | Caterham | Jaguar |
| Model | 7 | XJS |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 3590 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 251 HP | 226 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 258 Nm | 325 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Top Speed | 241 km/hour | 229 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 470 kg | 1660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2600 mm |
