2005 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1989 Jaguar XJS
To start off, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Jaguar XJS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Jaguar XJS would be higher. At 3,980 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Jaguar XJS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Jaguar XJS (235 HP @ 4750 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156. (185 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Jaguar XJS should accelerate faster than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Jaguar XJS weights approximately 260 kg more than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 Jaguar XJS 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 1989 Jaguar XJS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156, 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, 1989 Jaguar XJS (387 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 165 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156. (222 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1989 Jaguar XJS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156. 1989 Jaguar XJS has automatic transmission and 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 has manual transmission. 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1989 Jaguar XJS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1989 Jaguar XJS | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Jaguar |
| Model | 156 | XJS |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 3980 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 235 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 387 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68.3 mm | 102 mm |
| Top Speed | 225 km/hour | 224 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2600 mm |
