1969 Subaru FF-1 vs. 1997 Volkswagen W12
To start off, 1997 Volkswagen W12 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Subaru FF-1. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Subaru FF-1 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 368 more horse power than 1969 Subaru FF-1. (52 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen W12 should accelerate faster than 1969 Subaru FF-1. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen W12 weights approximately 505 kg more than 1969 Subaru FF-1. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Volkswagen W12 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 1997 Volkswagen W12. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1969 Subaru FF-1, 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, 1997 Volkswagen W12 (719 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 634 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Subaru FF-1. (85 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen W12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Subaru FF-1. 1997 Volkswagen W12 has automatic transmission and 1969 Subaru FF-1 has manual transmission. 1969 Subaru FF-1 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:
| 1969 Subaru FF-1 | 1997 Volkswagen W12 | |
| Make | Subaru | Volkswagen |
| Model | FF-1 | W12 |
| Year Released | 1969 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1088 cc | 5600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | W |
| Horse Power | 52 HP | 420 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 85 Nm | 719 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 695 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3940 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1110 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 55 L |
