2005 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1981 Jaguar XJS
To start off, 2005 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Jaguar XJS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Jaguar XJS would be higher. At 5,344 cc (12 cylinders), 1981 Jaguar XJS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Jaguar XJS (299 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 2005 Ford Thunderbird. (280 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Jaguar XJS should accelerate faster than 2005 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 5 kg more than 1981 Jaguar XJS.
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, 1981 Jaguar XJS (431 Nm) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Ford Thunderbird. (388 Nm). This means 1981 Jaguar XJS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Ford Thunderbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Ford Thunderbird | 1981 Jaguar XJS | |
| Make | Ford | Jaguar |
| Model | Thunderbird | XJS |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3932 cc | 5344 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 280 HP | 299 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 388 Nm | 431 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 12.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1712 kg | 1707 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 90 L |
