2008 Jeep Wrangler vs. 1997 Volkswagen W12
To start off, 2008 Jeep Wrangler 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 292 more horse power than 2008 Jeep Wrangler. (128 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen W12 should accelerate faster than 2008 Jeep Wrangler. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Jeep Wrangler weights approximately 680 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen W12.
Because 2008 Jeep Wrangler 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 Jeep Wrangler 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 309 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Jeep Wrangler. (410 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen W12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Jeep Wrangler. 1997 Volkswagen W12 has automatic transmission and 2008 Jeep Wrangler has manual transmission. 2008 Jeep Wrangler 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 Jeep Wrangler | 1997 Volkswagen W12 | |
| Make | Jeep | Volkswagen |
| Model | Wrangler | W12 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2777 cc | 5600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | W |
| Horse Power | 128 HP | 420 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 719 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 175 km/hour | 321 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1880 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1810 mm | 1110 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 55 L |
