2008 Audi A8 vs. 1997 Volkswagen W12
To start off, 2008 Audi A8 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 5,998 cc, 2008 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A8 (450 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen W12. (420 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen W12.
Because 2008 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, 2008 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, 1997 Volkswagen W12 (719 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 139 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A8. (580 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen W12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A8 | 1997 Volkswagen W12 | |
| Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
| Model | A8 | W12 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 5998 cc | 5600 cc |
| Engine Type | W | W |
| Horse Power | 450 HP | 420 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 580 Nm | 719 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.2 mm | 90.3 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5200 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1110 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 55 L |
