2005 Volkswagen Sharan vs. 1997 Volkswagen W12
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Sharan is newer by 8 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 307 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen Sharan. (113 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen W12 should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen Sharan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Sharan weights approximately 445 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, 2005 Volkswagen Sharan, 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 549 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volkswagen Sharan. (170 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen W12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volkswagen Sharan.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Volkswagen Sharan | 1997 Volkswagen W12 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Sharan | W12 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 5600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | W |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 420 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 719 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 90.3 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1645 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1740 mm | 1110 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
