2004 Saturn Vue vs. 1997 Volkswagen W12
To start off, 2004 Saturn Vue 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 276 more horse power than 2004 Saturn Vue. (144 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen W12 should accelerate faster than 2004 Saturn Vue. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Saturn Vue weights approximately 245 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, 2004 Saturn Vue, 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 513 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Saturn Vue. (206 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen W12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Saturn Vue. 1997 Volkswagen W12 has automatic transmission and 2004 Saturn Vue has manual transmission. 2004 Saturn Vue will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Volkswagen W12 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Saturn Vue | 1997 Volkswagen W12 | |
| Make | Saturn | Volkswagen |
| Model | Vue | W12 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1997 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 5600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | W |
| Horse Power | 144 HP | 420 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 206 Nm | 719 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 90.3 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4610 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1700 mm | 1110 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 55 L |
