2008 BMW M3 vs. 1997 Jaguar XK8
To start off, 2008 BMW M3 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Jaguar XK8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Jaguar XK8 would be higher. At 3,996 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Jaguar XK8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW M3 (338 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1997 Jaguar XK8. (290 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Jaguar XK8.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1997 Jaguar XK8 (393 Nm) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW M3. (365 Nm). This means 1997 Jaguar XK8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW M3. 1997 Jaguar XK8 has automatic transmission and 2008 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2008 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Jaguar XK8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW M3 | 1997 Jaguar XK8 | |
| Make | BMW | Jaguar |
| Model | M3 | XK8 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 3996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 290 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 393 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.1 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2590 mm |
