2006 Audi A3 vs. 1981 Jaguar XJS
To start off, 2006 Audi A3 is newer by 25 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 102 more horse power than 2006 Audi A3. (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Jaguar XJS should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Jaguar XJS weights approximately 333 kg more than 2006 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 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 1981 Jaguar XJS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Audi A3, 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, 1981 Jaguar XJS (431 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 151 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Audi A3. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1981 Jaguar XJS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A3 | 1981 Jaguar XJS | |
| Make | Audi | Jaguar |
| Model | A3 | XJS |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 5344 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 299 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 431 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 12.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 236 km/hour | 240 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.9 seconds | 7.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1374 kg | 1707 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 90 L |
