1999 Chevrolet Trans Sport vs. 1997 Volkswagen W12
To start off, 1999 Chevrolet Trans Sport is newer by 2 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 237 more horse power than 1999 Chevrolet Trans Sport. (183 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen W12 should accelerate faster than 1999 Chevrolet Trans Sport. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Chevrolet Trans Sport weights approximately 550 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, 1999 Chevrolet Trans Sport, 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 433 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Chevrolet Trans Sport. (286 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen W12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Chevrolet Trans Sport.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Chevrolet Trans Sport | 1997 Volkswagen W12 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Trans Sport | W12 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 3350 cc | 5600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | W |
| Horse Power | 183 HP | 420 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 286 Nm | 719 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.1 mm | 90.3 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1750 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5120 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1810 mm | 1110 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3050 mm | 2550 mm |
