1999 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2011 Volkswagen Sharan

To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Sharan is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 5,789 cc (12 cylinders), 1999 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mercedes-Benz S (362 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 249 more horse power than 2011 Volkswagen Sharan. (113 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2011 Volkswagen Sharan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 188 kg more than 2011 Volkswagen Sharan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1999 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 1999 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 1999 Mercedes-Benz S (540 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 260 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Volkswagen Sharan. (280 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 1999 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Volkswagen Sharan. 1999 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2011 Volkswagen Sharan has manual transmission. 2011 Volkswagen Sharan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1999 Mercedes-Benz S 2011 Volkswagen Sharan
Make Mercedes-Benz Volkswagen
Model S Sharan
Year Released 1999 2011
Body Type Sedan Minivan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 5789 cc 2000 cc
Engine Type V in-line
Valves per Cylinder 3 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 362 HP 113 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 4200 RPM
Torque 540 Nm 280 Nm
Torque RPM 4250 RPM 1750 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Diesel
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1960 kg 1772 kg
Vehicle Length 5160 mm 4854 mm
Vehicle Width 1860 mm 1904 mm
Vehicle Height 1460 mm 1720 mm
Wheelbase Size 3090 mm 2919 mm