1997 Volkswagen W12 vs. 2012 Toyota Highlander
To start off, 2012 Toyota Highlander is newer by 15 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 150 more horse power than 2012 Toyota Highlander. (270 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen W12 should accelerate faster than 2012 Toyota Highlander. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Toyota Highlander weights approximately 730 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, 2012 Toyota Highlander, 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 383 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Toyota Highlander. (336 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen W12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Toyota Highlander.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Volkswagen W12 | 2012 Toyota Highlander | |
Make | Volkswagen | Toyota |
Model | W12 | Highlander |
Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 5600 cc | 3500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | W | V |
Horse Power | 420 HP | 270 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6200 RPM |
Torque | 719 Nm | 336 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4700 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1930 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4785 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1910 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1760 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2789 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 73 L |