2008 BMW X5 vs. 1997 Volkswagen W12
To start off, 2008 BMW X5 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. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen W12 (420 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 160 more horse power than 2008 BMW X5. (260 HP @ 6600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen W12 should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW X5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X5 weights approximately 350 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen W12.
Because 2008 BMW X5 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 X5 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 414 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW X5. (305 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen W12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW X5.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X5 | 1997 Volkswagen W12 | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | X5 | W12 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 5600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | W |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 420 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 719 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1940 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1770 mm | 1110 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 55 L |
