2004 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2008 Volkswagen Sharan
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Sharan is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Sharan (148 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. (81 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Sharan should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Sharan weights approximately 368 kg more than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. 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, 2008 Volkswagen Sharan (211 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. (180 Nm @ 1400 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Sharan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz A | 2008 Volkswagen Sharan | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | A | Sharan |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 165 km/hour | 199 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 15 seconds | 10.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1668 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 70 L |
