1974 BMW 2.8 vs. 2002 Volkswagen W12
To start off, 2002 Volkswagen W12 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 BMW 2.8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 BMW 2.8 would be higher. At 5,982 cc (12 cylinders), 2002 Volkswagen W12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Volkswagen W12 (600 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 413 more horse power than 1974 BMW 2.8. (187 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Volkswagen W12 should accelerate faster than 1974 BMW 2.8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 BMW 2.8 weights approximately 289 kg more than 2002 Volkswagen W12.
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, 2002 Volkswagen W12 (335 Nm) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 BMW 2.8. (295 Nm). This means 2002 Volkswagen W12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 BMW 2.8.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 BMW 2.8 | 2002 Volkswagen W12 | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 2.8 | W12 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 3293 cc | 5982 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | W |
| Horse Power | 187 HP | 600 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 295 Nm | 335 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 1251 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1110 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 3010 mm |
