2005 Jaguar XK8 vs. 1978 Mazda RX-2
To start off, 2005 Jaguar XK8 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda RX-2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda RX-2 would be higher. At 4,194 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Jaguar XK8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Jaguar XK8 (294 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 176 more horse power than 1978 Mazda RX-2. (118 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Jaguar XK8 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda RX-2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Jaguar XK8 weights approximately 815 kg more than 1978 Mazda RX-2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2005 Jaguar XK8 (411 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 254 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda RX-2. (157 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 Jaguar XK8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda RX-2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Jaguar XK8 | 1978 Mazda RX-2 | |
| Make | Jaguar | Mazda |
| Model | XK8 | RX-2 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4194 cc | 2290 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 294 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 411 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1775 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2480 mm |
