2002 Volkswagen Sharan vs. 2011 Mazda 3
To start off, 2011 Mazda 3 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Volkswagen Sharan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Volkswagen Sharan would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Volkswagen Sharan (150 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2011 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Volkswagen Sharan should accelerate faster than 2011 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Volkswagen Sharan weights approximately 370 kg more than 2011 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2002 Volkswagen Sharan (220 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mazda 3. (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2002 Volkswagen Sharan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mazda 3. 2011 Mazda 3 has automatic transmission and 2002 Volkswagen Sharan has manual transmission. 2002 Volkswagen Sharan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mazda 3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Volkswagen Sharan | 2011 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Mazda |
| Model | Sharan | 3 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automatic |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1740 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
