2008 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 1999 Volkswagen Sharan
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Volkswagen Sharan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Volkswagen Sharan would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 55 kg more than 1999 Volkswagen Sharan.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz E 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E (460 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 250 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Volkswagen Sharan. (210 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Volkswagen Sharan. 2008 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 1999 Volkswagen Sharan has manual transmission. 1999 Volkswagen Sharan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz E | 1999 Volkswagen Sharan | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | E | Sharan |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4966 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 148 HP |
| Torque | 460 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1725 kg | 1670 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 70 L |
