2003 Vauxhall Signum vs. 1997 Volkswagen W12
To start off, 2003 Vauxhall Signum 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 212 more horse power than 2003 Vauxhall Signum. (208 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen W12 should accelerate faster than 2003 Vauxhall Signum. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Vauxhall Signum weights approximately 282 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 Vauxhall Signum, 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 419 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Vauxhall Signum. (300 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen W12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Vauxhall Signum.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Vauxhall Signum | 1997 Volkswagen W12 | |
| Make | Vauxhall | Volkswagen |
| Model | Signum | W12 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 3175 cc | 5600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | W |
| Horse Power | 208 HP | 420 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 719 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1482 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1110 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2550 mm |
