1997 Volkswagen W12 vs. 2009 Audi A3
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 12 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 282 more horse power than 2009 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen W12 should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A3 weights approximately 250 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, 2009 Audi A3, 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 399 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen W12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Volkswagen W12 | 2009 Audi A3 | |
Make | Volkswagen | Audi |
Model | W12 | A3 |
Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 5600 cc | 1968 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | W | in-line |
Horse Power | 420 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 719 Nm | 320 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 90.3 mm | 95.5 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
Top Speed | 321 km/hour | 207 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1450 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4290 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2580 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |