2008 Hummer H3 vs. 1997 Volkswagen W12
To start off, 2008 Hummer H3 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 178 more horse power than 2008 Hummer H3. (242 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen W12 should accelerate faster than 2008 Hummer H3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Hummer H3 weights approximately 1031 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen W12.
Because 2008 Hummer H3 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 Hummer H3 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 391 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Hummer H3. (328 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen W12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Hummer H3. 1997 Volkswagen W12 has automatic transmission and 2008 Hummer H3 has manual transmission. 2008 Hummer H3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Volkswagen W12 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Hummer H3 | 1997 Volkswagen W12 | |
| Make | Hummer | Volkswagen |
| Model | H3 | W12 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 3700 cc | 5600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | W |
| Horse Power | 242 HP | 420 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 328 Nm | 719 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2231 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1860 mm | 1110 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 87 L | 55 L |
