1997 Volkswagen W12 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz B
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz B 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 5,584 cc (12 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen W12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen W12 (420 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 286 more horse power than 2011 Mercedes-Benz B. (134 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen W12 should accelerate faster than 2011 Mercedes-Benz B. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz B weights approximately 193 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz B, 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 (530 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 345 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mercedes-Benz B. (185 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen W12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mercedes-Benz B.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Volkswagen W12 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz B | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | W12 | B |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 5584 cc | 2034 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | W | in-line |
| Horse Power | 420 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 530 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1152 kg | 1345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1010 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2780 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 54 L |
