1997 Volkswagen W12 vs. 2003 Audi S3
To start off, 2003 Audi S3 is newer by 6 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 198 more horse power than 2003 Audi S3. (222 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen W12 should accelerate faster than 2003 Audi S3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Audi S3 weights approximately 223 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen W12.
Because 2003 Audi S3 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, 2003 Audi S3 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 (719 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 439 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Audi S3. (280 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen W12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Audi S3. 1997 Volkswagen W12 has automatic transmission and 2003 Audi S3 has manual transmission. 2003 Audi S3 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 | 2003 Audi S3 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Audi |
| Model | W12 | S3 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 5600 cc | 1779 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | W | in-line |
| Horse Power | 420 HP | 222 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 719 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.3 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Top Speed | 321 km/hour | 243 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1423 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 62 L |
