Why is W12 better than V12?
When it comes to high-performance engines, the debate between W12 and V12 configurations often arises. Both are engineering marvels, but the W12 engine has distinct advantages that make it a superior choice in certain applications. In this article, we’ll explore the key differences and benefits of the W12 engine over the V12, helping you understand why automakers like Bentley and Volkswagen have embraced this innovative design.
What is a W12 Engine?
The W12 engine is a unique configuration that combines the compactness of a V-engine with the power of a 12-cylinder setup. It features four banks of three cylinders arranged in a "W" shape, as opposed to the two banks of six cylinders in a traditional V12. This design allows for a more compact and lightweight engine without sacrificing performance.
Advantages of the W12 Engine Over the V12
Here are some of the key reasons why the W12 engine is considered better than the V12 in certain scenarios:
- Compact Design: The W12 engine is significantly shorter and more compact than a V12. This allows automakers to fit it into smaller engine bays, making it ideal for luxury sedans and sports cars where space is at a premium.
- Weight Savings: Due to its compact design, the W12 engine is often lighter than a V12. This contributes to better weight distribution and improved handling in vehicles.
- Smoother Power Delivery: The W12 configuration provides a smoother and more refined power delivery compared to a V12, thanks to its unique cylinder arrangement and firing order.
- Cost Efficiency: Manufacturing a W12 engine can be more cost-effective than a V12 because it often shares components with smaller engines, such as V6s, reducing production complexity.
- Innovative Engineering: The W12 showcases cutting-edge engineering, offering high performance while maintaining reliability and efficiency.
These advantages make the W12 engine a popular choice for luxury and high-performance vehicles, where a balance of power, refinement, and practicality is essential.
Applications of the W12 Engine
The W12 engine has been prominently used in vehicles like the Bentley Continental GT and the Volkswagen Phaeton. Its compact size and smooth performance make it ideal for luxury cars that demand both power and comfort. In contrast, the V12 is often reserved for supercars and hypercars, where outright performance takes precedence over packaging and refinement.
Conclusion
While both the W12 and V12 engines have their merits, the W12 stands out for its compact design, weight savings, and smoother power delivery. These qualities make it a better choice for luxury and high-performance vehicles where space and refinement are critical. If you’re considering a vehicle with a W12 engine, you can rest assured that you’re getting a masterpiece of modern engineering.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Bentley discontinue the W12?
More than 100,000 W12s have been produced since the engine was introduced in the original Continental GT in 2003. The milestone decision to cease production is in line with Bentley's ground-breaking Beyond100 strategy, which will see the company become a global leader in sustainable luxury mobility.
Which car has a V24 engine?
BMW 7 Series Long with V24 engine.
Is W12 better than V12?
Bentley's legendary 6.0-litre twin-turbocharged W12, created in 2002, has evolved into the latest iteration of W12 engine used across today's current model range. The unique W-configuration means that the engine is 24 per cent shorter than an equivalent V12, benefitting packaging and maximising usable cabin space.
Why are V12 engines not used?
Cost and Complexity: V12 engines are more complex and expensive to produce than smaller engines. The cost of development, manufacturing, and maintenance can be prohibitive, especially as automakers look to streamline production and reduce costs.
What is the advantage of the W12 engine?
Lighter Weight: The W12 engine is lighter than many V8 or V12 engines, which helps improve the car's overall performance and handling. More Power in Less Space: With 12 cylinders firing in a compact layout, the W12 engine can produce incredible power and smoothness while remaining efficient.
What car has a V16?
The 2003 Cadillac Sixteen concept car was unveiled with a 13.6 L (830 cu in) V16 engine, which was based on the General Motors LS V8 engines. The following year, the Rolls-Royce 100EX concept car was unveiled with a 9.0 L (549 cu in) V16 engine.
What are the disadvantages of W12?
The drawbacks of the W12 engine are high cost, increased maintenance, heavy weight, and poor fuel economy. Audi, Bentley, Spyker, and Volkswagen have car models that use the W12 engine.
Is a W12 faster than a V8?
Adding 4 cylinders can add more power, such as with the Bentley Continental GT V8 compared to the W12 version, where the V8 has 542 horsepower compared to the W12 with 626 horsepower. That's enough to shave the 0-60 from 4.1 to 3.7 seconds.
Are W12 engines reliable?
It was more compact in length than a conventional V12 and was spectacularly smooth. As Volkswagen went on to demonstrate in spectacular fashion, and as time has largely proven, it was reliable too.
Why is V12 banned in F1?
Final FIA V12 Engines Ban
F1 engineers had universally agreed that the compact V10 architecture simply offered better packaging and efficiency compared to the larger, heavier V12 layout.
