2005 Jaguar XK8 vs. 1977 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2005 Jaguar XK8 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 4,196 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Jaguar XK8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Jaguar XK8 (294 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 245 more horse power than 1977 Volkswagen Golf. (49 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Jaguar XK8 should accelerate faster than 1977 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Jaguar XK8 weights approximately 930 kg more than 1977 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Jaguar XK8 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 2005 Jaguar XK8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1977 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, 2005 Jaguar XK8 (411 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 328 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Volkswagen Golf. (83 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Jaguar XK8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Volkswagen Golf. 2005 Jaguar XK8 has automatic transmission and 1977 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1977 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Jaguar XK8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Jaguar XK8 | 1977 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Jaguar | Volkswagen |
| Model | XK8 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1977 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4196 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 294 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 411 Nm | 83 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.3 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1735 kg | 805 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 45 L |
