2008 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1981 Jaguar XJS
To start off, 2008 Chevrolet Malibu 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 129 more horse power than 2008 Chevrolet Malibu. (170 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Jaguar XJS should accelerate faster than 2008 Chevrolet Malibu.
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 Chevrolet Malibu, 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 214 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Chevrolet Malibu. (217 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1981 Jaguar XJS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chevrolet Malibu | 1981 Jaguar XJS | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Jaguar |
| Model | Malibu | XJS |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2401 cc | 5344 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 299 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 217 Nm | 431 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 90 L |
