1954 Ferrari 255 S vs. 1997 Volkswagen W12
To start off, 1997 Volkswagen W12 is newer by 43 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 Ferrari 255 S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 Ferrari 255 S would be higher. At 5,600 cc (12 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen W12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen W12 (420 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 212 more horse power than 1954 Ferrari 255 S. (208 HP @ 7200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen W12 should accelerate faster than 1954 Ferrari 255 S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen W12 weights approximately 350 kg more than 1954 Ferrari 255 S. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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. 1997 Volkswagen W12 has automatic transmission and 1954 Ferrari 255 S has manual transmission. 1954 Ferrari 255 S will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Volkswagen W12 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1954 Ferrari 255 S | 1997 Volkswagen W12 | |
| Make | Ferrari | Volkswagen |
| Model | 255 S | W12 |
| Year Released | 1954 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2713 cc | 5600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | W |
| Horse Power | 208 HP | 420 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1110 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 159 L | 55 L |
