2008 BMW Z4 vs. 1997 Volkswagen W12
To start off, 2008 BMW Z4 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 205 more horse power than 2008 BMW Z4. (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen W12 should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW Z4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW Z4 weights approximately 208 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 (530 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 280 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW Z4. (250 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen W12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW Z4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW Z4 | 1997 Volkswagen W12 | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | Z4 | W12 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2496 cc | 5584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | W |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 420 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 90.3 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1152 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1010 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2540 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
