2009 Citroen C5 vs. 2001 Volkswagen W12
To start off, 2009 Citroen C5 is newer by 8 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. In terms of performance, 2001 Volkswagen W12 (590 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 452 more horse power than 2009 Citroen C5. (138 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Volkswagen W12 should accelerate faster than 2009 Citroen C5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Citroen C5 weights approximately 402 kg more than 2001 Volkswagen W12.
Because 2001 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 2001 Volkswagen W12. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Citroen C5, 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, 2001 Volkswagen W12 (620 Nm @ 5800 RPM) has 420 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Citroen C5. (200 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2001 Volkswagen W12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Citroen C5.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Citroen C5 | 2001 Volkswagen W12 | |
| Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
| Model | C5 | W12 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 5998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | W |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 590 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 620 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 210 km/hour | 350 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.7 seconds | 3.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1602 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1110 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2820 mm | 2520 mm |
