2006 Audi A3 vs. 1997 Volkswagen Sharan
To start off, 2006 Audi A3 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Sharan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Sharan would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Sharan (113 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 2006 Audi A3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Sharan should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Sharan weights approximately 380 kg more than 2006 Audi A3. 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, 2006 Audi A3 (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Sharan. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2006 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Sharan.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A3 | 1997 Volkswagen Sharan | |
| Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
| Model | A3 | Sharan |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 1894 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | 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 | 1335 kg | 1715 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
