1997 Volkswagen W12 vs. 2001 Alfa Romeo 146
To start off, 2001 Alfa Romeo 146 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen W12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen W12 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 267 more horse power than 2001 Alfa Romeo 146. (153 HP @ 6400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen W12 should accelerate faster than 2001 Alfa Romeo 146. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Alfa Romeo 146 weights approximately 75 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen W12.
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, 2001 Alfa Romeo 146, 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 532 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Alfa Romeo 146. (187 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen W12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Alfa Romeo 146. 1997 Volkswagen W12 has automatic transmission and 2001 Alfa Romeo 146 has manual transmission. 2001 Alfa Romeo 146 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:
| 1997 Volkswagen W12 | 2001 Alfa Romeo 146 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | W12 | 146 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 5600 cc | 1910 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | W | in-line |
| Horse Power | 420 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 719 Nm | 187 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.3 mm | 91.1 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1275 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 61 L |
