1968 Volkswagen 1600 vs. 1997 Volkswagen W12
To start off, 1997 Volkswagen W12 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Volkswagen 1600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Volkswagen 1600 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) has 367 more horse power than 1968 Volkswagen 1600. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen W12 should accelerate faster than 1968 Volkswagen 1600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen W12 weights approximately 225 kg more than 1968 Volkswagen 1600. 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. Let's talk about torque, 1997 Volkswagen W12 (719 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 609 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Volkswagen 1600. (110 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen W12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Volkswagen 1600.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Volkswagen 1600 | 1997 Volkswagen W12 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | 1600 | W12 |
| Year Released | 1968 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1583 cc | 5600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | W |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 420 HP |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 719 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69 mm | 90.3 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 975 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1110 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 55 L |
