New (?) VW W12--Looks like an Avus and Spyder hybrid.

[Jim & Bev <jazman@accunet.net>]

In the November 10, 1997 issue of AutoWeek there is an article covering 
the Tokyo Auto Show.  No Audis covered, per se, but there is a 
nice photo of a yellow VW W12.  The car looks like a hybrid of 
of the Audi Avus and Spyder showcars.  Design is Italdesign.  Does
anyone know the designers of the Avus or Spyder?

To quote: "The W12 consists of two VR6 engines joined at a 72 degree
angle.  The V becomes a W because the top end of each VR6 has a 15
degree  offset between alternating cylinders.  It makes for a very
compact powerplant.  But how do you handle the exhaust?  One VR6 is
turned around, allowing the induction manifolds of the engines to face
each other and the exhausts to exit to the sides. "  Displacement: 5.6L
420 HP.

How does this configuration differ from the Audi W12?

Looks like the technical differences of Audi and VW continue to blur.
According to the article, this engine is aimed at MB, with Ferdinand
Piech behind the sights.

If this is brought to market I may abandon my lust for an Audi S4/S6!