1998 Volkswagen New Beetle vs. 1997 Volkswagen W12
To start off, 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 1 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 305 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle. (115 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen W12 should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 131 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, 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle, 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) has 554 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle. (165 Nm). This means 1997 Volkswagen W12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle. 1997 Volkswagen W12 has automatic transmission and 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle has manual transmission. 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle 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:
| 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle | 1997 Volkswagen W12 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | New Beetle | W12 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 5600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | W |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 420 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 719 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.7 mm | 90.3 mm |
| Top Speed | 181 km/hour | 321 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1331 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1520 mm | 1110 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
