1997 Volkswagen W12 vs. 2011 BMW Z4
To start off, 2011 BMW Z4 is newer by 14 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 85 more horse power than 2011 BMW Z4. (335 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen W12 should accelerate faster than 2011 BMW Z4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW Z4 weights approximately 410 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen W12.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 269 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 BMW Z4. (450 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen W12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 BMW Z4. 1997 Volkswagen W12 has automatic transmission and 2011 BMW Z4 has manual transmission. 2011 BMW Z4 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 | 2011 BMW Z4 | |
Make | Volkswagen | BMW |
Model | W12 | Z4 |
Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 5600 cc | 3000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | W | in-line |
Horse Power | 420 HP | 335 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5900 RPM |
Torque | 719 Nm | 450 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1610 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4242 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1791 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1285 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2497 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |