2007 Audi A8 vs. 1997 Volkswagen W12
To start off, 2007 Audi A8 is newer by 10 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, 2007 Audi A8 (444 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen W12. (420 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen W12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Audi A8 weights approximately 788 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen W12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 Audi A8 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, 2007 Audi A8 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, 2007 Audi A8 (540 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen W12. (530 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2007 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen W12.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Audi A8 | 1997 Volkswagen W12 | |
| Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
| Model | A8 | W12 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 5202 cc | 5584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | W |
| Horse Power | 444 HP | 420 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 540 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 90.3 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1940 kg | 1152 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5070 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1010 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2540 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 55 L |
