2007 Mercedes-Benz GL vs. 1997 Volkswagen W12
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz GL 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 205 more horse power than 2007 Mercedes-Benz GL. (215 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen W12 should accelerate faster than 2007 Mercedes-Benz GL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 1259 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen W12.
Because 2007 Mercedes-Benz GL 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 Mercedes-Benz GL 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 (719 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 179 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Mercedes-Benz GL. (540 Nm @ 1400 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen W12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Mercedes-Benz GL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mercedes-Benz GL | 1997 Volkswagen W12 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | GL | W12 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1997 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2987 cc | 5600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | W |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 420 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 540 Nm | 719 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 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 | 210 km/hour | 321 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2459 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1930 mm | 1110 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 100 L | 55 L |
