1981 Porsche 944 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Sharan

To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Sharan is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Porsche 944. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Porsche 944 would be higher. At 2,479 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Porsche 944 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Sharan (148 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1981 Porsche 944. (145 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Sharan should accelerate faster than 1981 Porsche 944. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Sharan weights approximately 323 kg more than 1981 Porsche 944. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1981 Porsche 944 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 1981 Porsche 944. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Sharan, 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, 2008 Volkswagen Sharan (211 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Porsche 944. (195 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Sharan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Porsche 944.

Compare all specifications:

1981 Porsche 944 2008 Volkswagen Sharan
Make Porsche Volkswagen
Model 944 Sharan
Year Released 1981 2008
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2479 cc 1781 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 145 HP 148 HP
Engine RPM 5800 RPM 5800 RPM
Torque 195 Nm 211 Nm
Torque RPM 3000 RPM 1800 RPM
Engine Bore Size 100 mm 81 mm
Engine Stroke Size 78.9 mm 86.4 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline - Premium
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 4 seats 7 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1345 kg 1668 kg
Vehicle Length 4300 mm 4640 mm
Vehicle Width 1740 mm 1820 mm
Vehicle Height 1280 mm 1740 mm
Wheelbase Size 2410 mm 2850 mm