2006 Audi A3 vs. 1987 Jaguar XJS

To start off, 2006 Audi A3 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Jaguar XJS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Jaguar XJS would be higher. At 3,590 cc (6 cylinders), 1987 Jaguar XJS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Jaguar XJS (217 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2006 Audi A3. (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1987 Jaguar XJS should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Jaguar XJS weights approximately 220 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 1987 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 1987 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, 1987 Jaguar XJS (331 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Audi A3. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1987 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 1987 Jaguar XJS
Make Audi Jaguar
Model A3 XJS
Year Released 2006 1987
Body Type Hatchback Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1982 cc 3590 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 197 HP 217 HP
Engine RPM 5100 RPM 5300 RPM
Torque 280 Nm 331 Nm
Torque RPM 1800 RPM 4000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 82.5 mm 91.1 mm
Engine Stroke Size 92.8 mm 92 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1410 kg 1630 kg
Vehicle Length 4290 mm 4880 mm
Vehicle Width 1770 mm 1800 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1270 mm
Wheelbase Size 2580 mm 2600 mm