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 199 more horse power than 2006 Mercedes-Benz C. (221 HP @ 3800 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 520 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 209 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mercedes-Benz C. (510 Nm). 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 | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2987 cc | 5600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | W |
| Horse Power | 221 HP | 420 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 510 Nm | 719 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 90.3 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 241 km/hour | 321 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1720 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1110 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
