2008 Ford S-Max vs. 1981 Jaguar XJS

To start off, 2008 Ford S-Max 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 156 more horse power than 2008 Ford S-Max. (143 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Jaguar XJS should accelerate faster than 2008 Ford S-Max. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Jaguar XJS weights approximately 102 kg more than 2008 Ford S-Max. 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 Ford S-Max, 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 246 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Ford S-Max. (185 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1981 Jaguar XJS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Ford S-Max. 1981 Jaguar XJS has automatic transmission and 2008 Ford S-Max has manual transmission. 2008 Ford S-Max 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 Ford S-Max 1981 Jaguar XJS
Make Ford Jaguar
Model S-Max XJS
Year Released 2008 1981
Body Type Minivan Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1999 cc 5344 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 12 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 143 HP 299 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 185 Nm 431 Nm
Torque RPM 4500 RPM 3000 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 10.8:1 12.5:1
Top Speed 197 km/hour 240 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 11.2 seconds 7.9 seconds
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1605 kg 1707 kg
Vehicle Length 4770 mm 4880 mm
Vehicle Width 1890 mm 1780 mm
Vehicle Height 1660 mm 1270 mm
Wheelbase Size 2860 mm 2600 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 90 L