2008 BMW 525 vs. 1997 Volkswagen W12
To start off, 2008 BMW 525 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 5,600 cc (12 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen W12 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 525 weights approximately 480 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen W12.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 474 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 525. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen W12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 525.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 525 | 1997 Volkswagen W12 | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 525 | W12 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 5600 cc |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 420 HP |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 719 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 90.3 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1680 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1110 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
