1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2003 Volkswagen Sharan
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Sharan is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,797 cc (6 cylinders), 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 (197 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen Sharan. (148 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen Sharan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen Sharan weights approximately 129 kg more than 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Because 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 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 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 (260 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volkswagen Sharan. (210 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volkswagen Sharan. 2003 Volkswagen Sharan has automatic transmission and 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 has manual transmission. 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Volkswagen Sharan will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 2003 Volkswagen Sharan | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | 280 | Sharan |
| Year Released | 1993 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2797 cc | 1786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.5 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1545 kg | 1674 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
