2006 Mercedes-Benz R vs. 1997 Volkswagen W12
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz R 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 5,584 cc (12 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen W12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen W12 (420 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 233 more horse power than 2006 Mercedes-Benz R. (187 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen W12 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mercedes-Benz R. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz R weights approximately 1068 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen W12.
Because 2006 Mercedes-Benz R is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Volkswagen W12. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz R will offer significantly more control. 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 (530 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mercedes-Benz R. (441 Nm @ 1400 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen W12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mercedes-Benz R.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz R | 1997 Volkswagen W12 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | R | W12 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2987 cc | 5584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | W |
| Horse Power | 187 HP | 420 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 441 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 90.3 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2220 kg | 1152 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4930 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1660 mm | 1010 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2990 mm | 2540 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |
