2006 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1998 Volkswagen Sharan
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 8 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (141 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Sharan. (113 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Sharan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volkswagen Sharan weights approximately 20 kg more than 2006 Mercedes-Benz C.
Because 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2006 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen Sharan, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 Mercedes-Benz C (220 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Sharan. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Sharan. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1998 Volkswagen Sharan has manual transmission. 1998 Volkswagen Sharan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz C | 1998 Volkswagen Sharan | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | C | Sharan |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 8 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1695 kg | 1715 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
