2004 Jaguar XK vs. 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Jaguar XK is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle would be higher. At 4,195 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Jaguar XK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Jaguar XK (294 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 179 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle. (115 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Jaguar XK should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Jaguar XK weights approximately 474 kg more than 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 Jaguar XK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle, 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 XK (411 Nm) has 246 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle. (165 Nm). This means 2004 Jaguar XK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Jaguar XK | 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Jaguar | Volkswagen |
| Model | XK | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4195 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 294 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 411 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 92.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1805 kg | 1331 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 55 L |
