2008 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1985 Jaguar XJS
To start off, 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Jaguar XJS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Jaguar XJS would be higher. At 3,590 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 Jaguar XJS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Jaguar XJS (225 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider. (163 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Jaguar XJS should accelerate faster than 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Jaguar XJS weights approximately 150 kg more than 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 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 1985 Jaguar XJS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider, 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, 1985 Jaguar XJS (325 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider. (206 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 1985 Jaguar XJS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1985 Jaguar XJS | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Jaguar |
| Model | Spider | XJS |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 3590 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 225 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 206 Nm | 325 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 90 L |
