2004 Buick Rainier vs. 1997 Volkswagen W12
To start off, 2004 Buick Rainier 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 5,600 cc (12 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen W12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen W12 (420 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 145 more horse power than 2004 Buick Rainier. (275 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen W12 should accelerate faster than 2004 Buick Rainier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Buick Rainier weights approximately 815 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen W12.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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) has 332 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Buick Rainier. (387 Nm). This means 1997 Volkswagen W12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Buick Rainier.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Buick Rainier | 1997 Volkswagen W12 | |
| Make | Buick | Volkswagen |
| Model | Rainier | W12 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1997 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 4195 cc | 5600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | W |
| Horse Power | 275 HP | 420 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 387 Nm | 719 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2015 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1920 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1900 mm | 1110 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 55 L |
