What is the difference between W12 and V12?

[Dean]

Here are the differences between W12 and V12: 1. The advantages of V-type engines are: stable operation (for V6, V8, V12), space-saving. The disadvantages are: relatively complex structure, which is not conducive to maintenance and repair, and the cost is higher. At the same time, V3, V5, including V10, are not very stable due to their structure or displacement, especially the V10-3L engine used as an F1 engine, which requires a lot of effort and funding to ensure its stability. 2. The W-type engine is a type of V-type engine, but it divides the cylinders on both sides of the V-type engine into two groups. Viewed from the side, it looks like a "W", hence the name. The W12 engine is composed of two V6 engines. Its biggest advantage is its compact structure, easy arrangement, and optimization of the engine compartment space. The disadvantage is that the structure is too complex. The W-type engine is a patented technology of Volkswagen. Only Volkswagen and its brands use W-type engines. Currently, there are mainly W12 and W16. The W12 is smaller in size than the V12.

[StRosalie]

From a driving perspective, both W12 and V12 are 12-cylinder engines but with different layouts. The V12 has cylinders arranged in a V-shape, featuring a traditional structure used in Ferraris or Rolls-Royces, offering minimal vibration and smooth operation. The W12, resembling two V6 engines combined into a W-shape, has a compact yet more complex design, commonly found in Volkswagen Group's Bentleys. The V12 takes up more space, making it suitable for rear-wheel-drive sports cars, while the shorter W12 can be mounted transversely, as seen in Audis. In terms of maintenance, the V12 is more durable but expensive, whereas the W12 is more precise but may have more minor issues. At high speeds, the V12 delivers a powerful and exhilarating sound, while the W12 is quieter. The choice depends on the manufacturer's philosophy—the W12 saves space and costs less, while the V12 offers superior performance and emotional appeal. It's recommended to test drive both to feel the differences before making a decision.

[TuckerAnn]

As a car veteran, the core differences between W12 and V12 lie in design and application. The V-shaped layout of the V12 is classic, with low vibration ideal for high-performance cars—I’ll never forget the smoothness when driving a Lamborghini. The W12 is a compromise-driven innovation, compacting cylinders into a smaller space, saving room for luxury sedans. Performance-wise, the V12 offers quicker response and thrilling high revs; the W12 is slightly inferior but more fuel-efficient. Common issues: W12s are complex to maintain, while V12s are simpler but have pricier parts. Historically, V12s are established, like classic BMWs; W12s are trendier, seen in modern Bentleys. When buying, consider needs: choose a V12 for sound and smoothness, a W12 for practicality and space-saving—and always prioritize safe driving with regular checks and maintenance.

[AliceAnn]

I think the W12 is like a stacked design, more compact than the V12. The V12 is a standard V-shape with less vibration, making it suitable for sports cars or luxury vehicles; the W12 is like squeezing two V6 engines together, saving space in the engine bay for front-wheel-drive cars. The difference lies in the layout affecting size and smoothness: the V12 is more stable with smoother acceleration but takes up more space; the W12 is shorter and easier to install. In terms of application, the Audi A8 uses a transversely mounted W12 well; the F12 Berlinetta's V12 is a pure rear-wheel-drive setup. Maintenance-wise, the V12 is cheaper with a mature design, while the W12 is more refined but prone to overheating. Key considerations: the W12 suits small platforms for economy, while the V12 pursues ultimate performance—understanding this can help avoid pitfalls.

[LeTessa]

From the evolution story, the V12 was born earlier as a symbol of top-tier engines. The W12 was invented later by Volkswagen to save costs by sharing parts. The main difference lies in their structure: the V12 has cylinders arranged in a V shape, offering pure smoothness and quiet operation; the W12 stacks cylinders in a W shape, compressing space to fit smaller cars. Driving a V12 feels like gliding on silk—I've tried older models; the W12 is slightly noisier but adapts well to urban environments. Commonly found in luxury brands: the V12 is seen in Aston Martins, while the W12 is more prevalent in Bentleys. Maintenance-wise, V12 parts are readily available, whereas W12 parts are scarce. Expanding the topic, modern trends favor the W12 for being more eco-friendly with lower emissions, while the V12 holds stronger nostalgic appeal; choose a car based on practical size needs rather than blindly following trends.