2008 Audi A3 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Sharan
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Sharan is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Audi A3 would be higher. At 3,189 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Sharan weights approximately 295 kg more than 2008 Audi A3.
Because 2008 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Volkswagen Sharan. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Sharan. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Sharan. 2012 Volkswagen Sharan has automatic transmission and 2008 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2008 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Volkswagen Sharan will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 2012 Volkswagen Sharan | |
| Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
| Model | A3 | Sharan |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3189 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 1973 HP |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.3 seconds | 8.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1495 kg | 1790 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 4854 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1720 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2919 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.8 L/100km | 8.5 L/100km |
