2005 Mazda 3 vs. 2011 Volkswagen Sharan
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Sharan is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 2,000 cc, 2011 Volkswagen Sharan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volkswagen Sharan (168 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 2005 Mazda 3. (108 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen Sharan should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Sharan weights approximately 554 kg more than 2005 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, 2011 Volkswagen Sharan (350 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda 3. (225 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2011 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 | 2011 Volkswagen Sharan | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 3 | Sharan |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1560 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 209 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.6 seconds | 9.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 1794 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4854 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1904 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1720 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2919 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5 L/100km | 5.8 L/100km |
