2006 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1997 Volkswagen W12
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 9 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 219 more horse power than 2006 Mercedes-Benz C. (201 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen W12 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 585 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 @ 3000 RPM) has 474 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mercedes-Benz C. (245 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen W12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz C | 1997 Volkswagen W12 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | C | W12 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2495 cc | 5600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | W |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 420 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 719 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68.4 mm | 90.3 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 234 km/hour | 321 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1110 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 55 L |
