2008 Nissan Maxima vs. 1997 Volkswagen W12
To start off, 2008 Nissan Maxima 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. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 290 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen W12.
Because 1997 Volkswagen W12 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1997 Volkswagen W12. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Nissan Maxima, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 540 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Nissan Maxima. (179 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen W12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Nissan Maxima. 1997 Volkswagen W12 has automatic transmission and 2008 Nissan Maxima has manual transmission. 2008 Nissan Maxima 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 Nissan Maxima | 1997 Volkswagen W12 | |
Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
Model | Maxima | W12 |
Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Middle |
Engine Size | 1994 cc | 5600 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | W |
Horse Power | 0 HP | 420 HP |
Torque | 179 Nm | 719 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 73.3 mm | 90.3 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Top Speed | 203 km/hour | 321 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1200 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4930 mm | 4410 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1930 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1110 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2550 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |