2004 Jaguar XJ vs. 1989 Volkswagen Golf

To start off, 2004 Jaguar XJ is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 4,193 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Jaguar XJ is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Jaguar XJ (400 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 190 more horse power than 1989 Volkswagen Golf. (210 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Jaguar XJ should accelerate faster than 1989 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Jaguar XJ weights approximately 899 kg more than 1989 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1989 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Jaguar XJ. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Volkswagen Golf will offer significantly more control. 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 XJ (553 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 301 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volkswagen Golf. (252 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2004 Jaguar XJ will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volkswagen Golf. 2004 Jaguar XJ has automatic transmission and 1989 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1989 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Jaguar XJ will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2004 Jaguar XJ 1989 Volkswagen Golf
Make Jaguar Volkswagen
Model XJ Golf
Year Released 2004 1989
Body Type Sedan Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4193 cc 1780 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 400 HP 210 HP
Engine RPM 6100 RPM 6500 RPM
Torque 553 Nm 252 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 5000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 86 mm 81 mm
Engine Stroke Size 90.3 mm 86.4 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 9.1:1 8.8:1
Top Speed 250 km/hour 229 km/hour
Drive Type Rear 4WD
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1689 kg 790 kg
Vehicle Length 5220 mm 3990 mm
Vehicle Width 1870 mm 1690 mm
Wheelbase Size 3170 mm 2480 mm