1989 Audi V8 vs. 1997 Volkswagen W12
To start off, 1997 Volkswagen W12 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Audi V8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Audi V8 would be higher. At 5,584 cc (12 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen W12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen W12 (420 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 169 more horse power than 1989 Audi V8. (251 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen W12 should accelerate faster than 1989 Audi V8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Audi V8 weights approximately 558 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen W12.
Because 1989 Audi V8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Volkswagen W12. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Audi V8 will offer significantly more control. 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 (530 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 190 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Audi V8. (340 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen W12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Audi V8.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Audi V8 | 1997 Volkswagen W12 | |
| Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
| Model | V8 | W12 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 3562 cc | 5584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | W |
| Horse Power | 251 HP | 420 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 340 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 90.3 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1710 kg | 1152 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1010 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2540 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |
