2009 BMW Z4 vs. 1981 Jaguar XJS
To start off, 2009 BMW Z4 is newer by 28 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, 2009 BMW Z4 (335 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1981 Jaguar XJS. (299 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1981 Jaguar XJS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Jaguar XJS weights approximately 182 kg more than 2009 BMW Z4.
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, 1981 Jaguar XJS (431 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 116 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW Z4. (315 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1981 Jaguar XJS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW Z4. 1981 Jaguar XJS has automatic transmission and 2009 BMW Z4 has manual transmission. 2009 BMW Z4 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:
| 2009 BMW Z4 | 1981 Jaguar XJS | |
| Make | BMW | Jaguar |
| Model | Z4 | XJS |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 5344 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 335 HP | 299 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 431 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 240 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.2 seconds | 7.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1707 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 90 L |
