2008 BMW 535 vs. 1997 Volkswagen W12
To start off, 2008 BMW 535 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 120 more horse power than 2008 BMW 535. (300 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen W12 should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 535. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 535 weights approximately 363 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen W12.
Because 2008 BMW 535 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 BMW 535 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 (530 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 123 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 535. (407 Nm @ 1400 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen W12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 535.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 535 | 1997 Volkswagen W12 | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 535 | W12 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 5584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | W |
| Horse Power | 300 HP | 420 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 407 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1515 kg | 1152 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1010 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2540 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
