1997 Mazda MPV vs. 2006 Volkswagen Sharan
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Sharan is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mazda MPV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mazda MPV would be higher. At 2,954 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Mazda MPV is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen Sharan (201 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1997 Mazda MPV. (146 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Sharan should accelerate faster than 1997 Mazda MPV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen Sharan weights approximately 30 kg more than 1997 Mazda MPV. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Mazda MPV 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 1997 Mazda MPV. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Volkswagen Sharan (265 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda MPV. (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen Sharan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda MPV.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mazda MPV | 2006 Volkswagen Sharan | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | MPV | Sharan |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2954 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 146 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 228 Nm | 265 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1722 kg | 1752 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2850 mm |
