2003 Toyota Echo vs. 2012 Volkswagen Sharan
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Sharan is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Toyota Echo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Toyota Echo would be higher. At 2,000 cc, 2012 Volkswagen Sharan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Sharan (168 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 2003 Toyota Echo. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Sharan should accelerate faster than 2003 Toyota Echo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Sharan weights approximately 839 kg more than 2003 Toyota Echo. 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, 2012 Volkswagen Sharan (350 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 208 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Toyota Echo. (142 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Sharan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Toyota Echo. 2003 Toyota Echo has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen Sharan has manual transmission. 2012 Volkswagen Sharan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Toyota Echo will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Toyota Echo | 2012 Volkswagen Sharan | |
| Make | Toyota | Volkswagen |
| Model | Echo | Sharan |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1497 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 142 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 955 kg | 1794 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 4854 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1904 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1520 mm | 1720 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2380 mm | 2919 mm |
