2001 Toyota Highlander vs. 1997 Volkswagen W12
To start off, 2001 Toyota Highlander is newer by 4 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 272 more horse power than 2001 Toyota Highlander. (148 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen W12 should accelerate faster than 2001 Toyota Highlander. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Toyota Highlander weights approximately 485 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen W12.
Because 2001 Toyota Highlander is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Volkswagen W12. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Toyota Highlander will offer significantly more control. 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 498 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Toyota Highlander. (221 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen W12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Toyota Highlander.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Toyota Highlander | 1997 Volkswagen W12 | |
| Make | Toyota | Volkswagen |
| Model | Highlander | W12 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1997 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2360 cc | 5600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | W |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 420 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 221 Nm | 719 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 96 mm | 90.3 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1685 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1690 mm | 1110 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 73 L | 55 L |
