2004 Jaguar S-Type vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2004 Jaguar S-Type is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,722 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Jaguar S-Type is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Jaguar S-Type (204 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 131 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (73 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Jaguar S-Type should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Jaguar S-Type weights approximately 562 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Jaguar S-Type 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 2004 Jaguar S-Type. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 2004 Jaguar S-Type (436 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 310 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (126 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2004 Jaguar S-Type will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Jaguar S-Type | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Jaguar | Volkswagen |
| Model | S-Type | Golf |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2722 cc | 1389 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 204 HP | 73 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 436 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1722 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4910 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2920 mm | 2520 mm |
