2009 BMW M3 vs. 1997 Jaguar XK8
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 12 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 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 124 more horse power than 1997 Jaguar XK8. (290 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 BMW M3 (400 Nm) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Jaguar XK8. (393 Nm). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Jaguar XK8. 1997 Jaguar XK8 has automatic transmission and 2009 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2009 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:
| 2009 BMW M3 | 1997 Jaguar XK8 | |
| Make | BMW | Jaguar |
| Model | M3 | XK8 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 3996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 290 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 393 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 245 km/hour | 236 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2590 mm |
