2005 Mazda 3 vs. 2001 Volkswagen Sharan
To start off, 2005 Mazda 3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Volkswagen Sharan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Volkswagen Sharan would be higher. At 2,260 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda 3 (160 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2001 Volkswagen Sharan. (148 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2001 Volkswagen Sharan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Volkswagen Sharan weights approximately 417 kg more than 2005 Mazda 3.
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, 2001 Volkswagen Sharan (210 Nm) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda 3. (203 Nm). This means 2001 Volkswagen Sharan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda 3 | 2001 Volkswagen Sharan | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 3 | Sharan |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2260 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 81.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1253 kg | 1670 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
