2004 Audi A3 vs. 1997 Volkswagen W12
To start off, 2004 Audi A3 is newer by 7 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 168 more horse power than 2004 Audi A3. (252 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen W12 should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A3 weights approximately 413 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen W12.
Because 2004 Audi A3 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, 2004 Audi A3 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 (530 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 210 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen W12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A3 | 1997 Volkswagen W12 | |
| Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
| Model | A3 | W12 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 3189 cc | 5584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | W |
| Horse Power | 252 HP | 420 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.9 mm | 90.3 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1565 kg | 1152 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1010 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2540 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |
