2003 Fiat Idea vs. 1997 Volkswagen W12
To start off, 2003 Fiat Idea is newer by 6 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, 1997 Volkswagen W12 (420 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 320 more horse power than 2003 Fiat Idea. (100 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen W12 should accelerate faster than 2003 Fiat Idea. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Fiat Idea weights approximately 123 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, 2003 Fiat Idea, 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 (530 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 275 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Fiat Idea. (255 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen W12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Fiat Idea.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Fiat Idea | 1997 Volkswagen W12 | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | Idea | W12 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 5584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | W |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 420 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 255 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 90.3 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 1152 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3940 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1010 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2540 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 47 L | 55 L |
