2003 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2006 Volkswagen Sharan
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Sharan is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen Sharan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen Sharan (201 HP @ 3400 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. (160 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Sharan should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 535 kg more than 2006 Volkswagen Sharan.
Because 2003 Mercedes-Benz E 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 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Volkswagen Sharan (265 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. (241 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen Sharan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. 2006 Volkswagen Sharan has automatic transmission and 2003 Mercedes-Benz E has manual transmission. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Volkswagen Sharan will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mercedes-Benz E | 2006 Volkswagen Sharan | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | E | Sharan |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2597 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 265 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Top Speed | 223 km/hour | 209 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.4 seconds | 10.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1720 kg | 1185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3090 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
