2006 Jaguar XKR vs. 1978 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2006 Jaguar XKR is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 4,195 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Jaguar XKR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Jaguar XKR (390 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 331 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Jaguar XKR should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Jaguar XKR weights approximately 968 kg more than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Jaguar XKR 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 2006 Jaguar XKR. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Volkswagen Passat, 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, 2006 Jaguar XKR (541 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 446 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. (95 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2006 Jaguar XKR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Jaguar XKR | 1978 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Jaguar | Volkswagen |
| Model | XKR | Passat |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4195 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 390 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 541 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.3 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.1:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1848 kg | 880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2480 mm |
