2003 Subaru Legacy vs. 1997 Volkswagen W12
To start off, 2003 Subaru Legacy 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 5,600 cc (12 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen W12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen W12 (420 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 178 more horse power than 2003 Subaru Legacy. (242 HP @ 6600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen W12 should accelerate faster than 2003 Subaru Legacy. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Subaru Legacy weights approximately 270 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen W12.
Because 2003 Subaru Legacy 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, 2003 Subaru Legacy 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 422 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Subaru Legacy. (297 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen W12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Subaru Legacy.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Subaru Legacy | 1997 Volkswagen W12 | |
| Make | Subaru | Volkswagen |
| Model | Legacy | W12 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2999 cc | 5600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | W |
| Horse Power | 242 HP | 420 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 297 Nm | 719 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 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 | 1470 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1110 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 55 L |
