2004 Mazda 3 vs. 1998 Volkswagen Sharan
To start off, 2004 Mazda 3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volkswagen Sharan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volkswagen Sharan would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Volkswagen Sharan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volkswagen Sharan (113 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 2004 Mazda 3. (99 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen Sharan should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volkswagen Sharan weights approximately 629 kg more than 2004 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, 1998 Volkswagen Sharan (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Volkswagen Sharan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda 3 | 1998 Volkswagen Sharan | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 3 | Sharan |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 99 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 8 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1086 kg | 1715 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
