2009 Daihatsu Copen vs. 1997 Volkswagen W12
To start off, 2009 Daihatsu Copen 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 334 more horse power than 2009 Daihatsu Copen. (86 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen W12 should accelerate faster than 2009 Daihatsu Copen. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen W12 weights approximately 302 kg more than 2009 Daihatsu Copen. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 Daihatsu Copen, 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 410 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Daihatsu Copen. (120 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen W12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Daihatsu Copen.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Daihatsu Copen | 1997 Volkswagen W12 | |
| Make | Daihatsu | Volkswagen |
| Model | Copen | W12 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1298 cc | 5584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | W |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 420 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 120 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 72 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.7 mm | 90.3 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 1152 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3400 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1480 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1010 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2540 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 55 L |
