2008 Alfa Romeo 147 vs. 1997 Volkswagen W12
To start off, 2008 Alfa Romeo 147 is newer by 11 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 302 more horse power than 2008 Alfa Romeo 147. (118 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen W12 should accelerate faster than 2008 Alfa Romeo 147. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Alfa Romeo 147 weights approximately 138 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, 2008 Alfa Romeo 147, 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 (530 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 255 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Alfa Romeo 147. (275 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen W12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Alfa Romeo 147.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Alfa Romeo 147 | 1997 Volkswagen W12 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volkswagen |
| Model | 147 | W12 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1910 cc | 5584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | W |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 420 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 1152 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1010 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |
