1999 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2004 Volkswagen Sharan
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Sharan is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL (190 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen Sharan. (148 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen Sharan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 92 kg more than 2004 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 SL 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 SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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 SL (271 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen Sharan. (210 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen Sharan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2004 Volkswagen Sharan | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | SL | Sharan |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2799 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 271 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 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1760 kg | 1668 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 70 L |
