1997 TVR Speed 12 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 TVR Speed 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 TVR Speed 12 would be higher. At 7,730 cc (12 cylinders), 1997 TVR Speed 12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 TVR Speed 12 (800 HP @ 8250 RPM) has 630 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle. (170 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 TVR Speed 12 should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 331 kg more than 1997 TVR Speed 12.
Because 1997 TVR Speed 12 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 TVR Speed 12. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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 TVR Speed 12 (881 Nm @ 5750 RPM) has 641 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle. (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1997 TVR Speed 12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 TVR Speed 12 | 2012 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | TVR | Volkswagen |
| Model | Speed 12 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7730 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 800 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8250 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 881 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1002 kg | 1333 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4278 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2040 mm | 1808 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1170 mm | 1486 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2537 mm |
