2003 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1997 Volkswagen Sharan
To start off, 2003 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 6 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 1,894 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Sharan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Sharan. (113 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Sharan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Sharan weights approximately 290 kg more than 2003 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2003 Mazda RX-8 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 2003 Mazda RX-8. 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, 2003 Mazda RX-8 (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Sharan. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Sharan.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda RX-8 | 1997 Volkswagen Sharan | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | RX-8 | Sharan |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1894 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 8 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1715 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 70 L |
