2008 Jaguar XJ vs. 1985 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Jaguar XJ is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 4,200 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Jaguar XJ is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Jaguar XJ (300 HP) has 241 more horse power than 1985 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Jaguar XJ should accelerate faster than 1985 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Jaguar XJ weights approximately 744 kg more than 1985 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Jaguar XJ 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 2008 Jaguar XJ. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 Volkswagen Passat, 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, 2008 Jaguar XJ (420 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 320 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Volkswagen Passat. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Jaguar XJ will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Jaguar XJ | 1985 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Jaguar | Volkswagen |
| Model | XJ | Passat |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4200 cc | 1295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 300 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 420 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1684 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2110 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3040 mm | 2560 mm |
