2007 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1997 Volkswagen W12
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz A 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 5,600 cc (12 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen W12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen W12 (420 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 312 more horse power than 2007 Mercedes-Benz A. (108 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen W12 should accelerate faster than 2007 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 145 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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz A, 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 469 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Mercedes-Benz A. (250 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen W12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
2007 Mercedes-Benz A | 1997 Volkswagen W12 | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | A | W12 |
Year Released | 2007 | 1997 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Middle |
Engine Size | 1991 cc | 5600 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | W |
Horse Power | 108 HP | 420 HP |
Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 250 Nm | 719 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 90.3 mm |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
Top Speed | 186 km/hour | 321 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1200 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4410 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1930 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1110 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2550 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |