1997 Volkswagen Sharan vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Sharan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Sharan would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S (302 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 189 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Sharan. (113 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Sharan.
Because 2012 Mercedes-Benz S 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S (370 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 200 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Sharan. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Sharan. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1997 Volkswagen Sharan has manual transmission. 1997 Volkswagen Sharan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Volkswagen Sharan | 2012 Mercedes-Benz S | |
Make | Volkswagen | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Sharan | S |
Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
Body Type | Minivan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1894 cc | 3498 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 113 HP | 302 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 170 Nm | 370 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 8 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 5096 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1872 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1740 mm | 1473 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 3165 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 90 L |