2008 Alfa Romeo 147 vs. 1981 Jaguar XJS
To start off, 2008 Alfa Romeo 147 is newer by 27 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 181 more horse power than 2008 Alfa Romeo 147. (118 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Jaguar XJS should accelerate faster than 2008 Alfa Romeo 147. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Jaguar XJS weights approximately 442 kg more than 2008 Alfa Romeo 147. 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, 2008 Alfa Romeo 147, 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 285 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Alfa Romeo 147. (146 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1981 Jaguar XJS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Alfa Romeo 147. 1981 Jaguar XJS has automatic transmission and 2008 Alfa Romeo 147 has manual transmission. 2008 Alfa Romeo 147 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Jaguar XJS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Alfa Romeo 147 | 1981 Jaguar XJS | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Jaguar |
| Model | 147 | XJS |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 5344 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 299 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 431 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 12.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 195 km/hour | 240 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.6 seconds | 7.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1265 kg | 1707 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 90 L |
