1997 Volkswagen W12 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta 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 250 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. (170 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen W12 should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 200 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 Volkswagen Jetta, 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 479 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen W12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. 1997 Volkswagen W12 has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta 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 | 2012 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | W12 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 5600 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | W | in-line |
| Horse Power | 420 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 719 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4644 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1778 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1482 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2651 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
