2008 Mercedes-Benz E 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 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Sharan (148 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 2008 Mercedes-Benz E. (120 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Sharan should accelerate faster than 2008 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Sharan weights approximately 123 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz E. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2012 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 (271 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Sharan. (240 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Sharan.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz E | 2012 Volkswagen Sharan | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | E | Sharan |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 1400 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 202 km/hour | 196 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.1 seconds | 10.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1600 kg | 1723 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4854 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1904 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1720 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2919 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.1 L/100km | 7.2 L/100km |
