2003 Volkswagen Phaeton vs. 1997 Volkswagen W12
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton 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 90 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton. (330 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen W12 should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 1081 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen W12.
Because 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton 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 Volkswagen Phaeton 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 289 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton. (430 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen W12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton | 1997 Volkswagen W12 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Phaeton | W12 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 4172 cc | 5600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | W |
| Horse Power | 330 HP | 420 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 430 Nm | 719 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 90.3 mm |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 321 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2281 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5180 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1110 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 55 L |
