2003 Volkswagen Sharan vs. 1973 Chrysler Centura
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Sharan is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Chrysler Centura. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Chrysler Centura would be higher. At 1,981 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Chrysler Centura is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen Sharan (148 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1973 Chrysler Centura. (118 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Sharan should accelerate faster than 1973 Chrysler Centura. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen Sharan weights approximately 558 kg more than 1973 Chrysler Centura. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Chrysler Centura 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 1973 Chrysler Centura. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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 Volkswagen Sharan (210 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Chrysler Centura. (175 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen Sharan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Chrysler Centura. 1973 Chrysler Centura has automatic transmission and 2003 Volkswagen Sharan has manual transmission. 2003 Volkswagen Sharan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1973 Chrysler Centura will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Volkswagen Sharan | 1973 Chrysler Centura | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Chrysler |
| Model | Sharan | Centura |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1786 cc | 1981 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1674 kg | 1116 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1740 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2680 mm |
