1998 Mazda MPV vs. 2008 Volkswagen Sharan
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Sharan is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mazda MPV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mazda MPV would be higher. At 2,953 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mazda MPV is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Sharan (148 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1998 Mazda MPV. (146 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Sharan should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda MPV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mazda MPV weights approximately 52 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Sharan.
Because 1998 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 1998 Mazda MPV. 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, 1998 Mazda MPV (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Sharan. (211 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1998 Mazda MPV will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Sharan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda MPV | 2008 Volkswagen Sharan | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | MPV | Sharan |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2953 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 146 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 228 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 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 | 1720 kg | 1668 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 |
