2002 Ferrari 550 vs. 1997 Volkswagen W12
To start off, 2002 Ferrari 550 is newer by 5 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 5,584 cc (12 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen W12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Ferrari 550 (485 HP @ 7250 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen W12. (420 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Ferrari 550 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen W12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Ferrari 550 weights approximately 538 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen W12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2002 Ferrari 550, 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, 2002 Ferrari 550 (570 Nm) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen W12. (530 Nm). This means 2002 Ferrari 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen W12.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ferrari 550 | 1997 Volkswagen W12 | |
| Make | Ferrari | Volkswagen |
| Model | 550 | W12 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 5473 cc | 5584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | W |
| Horse Power | 485 HP | 420 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7250 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 570 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.9 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 74.9 mm | 90.3 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 1152 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1940 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1010 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2540 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 110 L | 55 L |
