1979 Volkswagen Beetle vs. 1997 Volkswagen W12
To start off, 1997 Volkswagen W12 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volkswagen Beetle 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 377 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen W12 should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen W12 weights approximately 380 kg more than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. 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, 1979 Volkswagen Beetle, 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 633 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen W12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Volkswagen Beetle | 1997 Volkswagen W12 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Beetle | W12 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1285 cc | 5600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | W |
| Horse Power | 43 HP | 420 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4100 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 86 Nm | 719 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 820 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1930 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2550 mm |
