2008 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2001 Volkswagen W12
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Volkswagen W12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Volkswagen W12 would be higher. At 5,998 cc (12 cylinders), 2001 Volkswagen W12 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 335 kg more than 2001 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, 2001 Volkswagen W12 (620 Nm @ 5800 RPM) has 380 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mercedes-Benz C. (240 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2001 Volkswagen W12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz C | 2001 Volkswagen W12 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | C | W12 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 5998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | W |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 590 HP |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 620 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 234 km/hour | 350 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.1 seconds | 3.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1535 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1110 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2520 mm |
