2008 Audi A3 vs. 2003 Volkswagen Sharan
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Volkswagen Sharan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Volkswagen Sharan would be higher. At 1,786 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Volkswagen Sharan is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen Sharan weights approximately 514 kg more than 2008 Audi A3.
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, 2003 Volkswagen Sharan (210 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A3. (170 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen Sharan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A3. 2008 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 2003 Volkswagen Sharan has manual transmission. 2003 Volkswagen Sharan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 2003 Volkswagen Sharan | |
| Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
| Model | A3 | Sharan |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 1786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 148 HP |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1674 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
