2009 Chevrolet Impala vs. 1997 Volkswagen W12
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Impala is newer by 12 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 187 more horse power than 2009 Chevrolet Impala. (233 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen W12 should accelerate faster than 2009 Chevrolet Impala. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet Impala weights approximately 397 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, 2009 Chevrolet Impala, 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 (530 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 205 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Chevrolet Impala. (325 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen W12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Chevrolet Impala.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Impala | 1997 Volkswagen W12 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Impala | W12 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 3899 cc | 5584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | W |
| Horse Power | 233 HP | 420 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 325 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1549 kg | 1152 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1010 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2540 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 55 L |
