2008 Mercedes-Benz GL vs. 2003 Volkswagen Sharan
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL 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 5,459 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL (383 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 235 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen Sharan. (148 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen Sharan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 771 kg more than 2003 Volkswagen Sharan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Volkswagen Sharan. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL 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 Mercedes-Benz GL (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 320 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volkswagen Sharan. (210 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volkswagen Sharan. 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL 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 Mercedes-Benz GL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Mercedes-Benz GL | 2003 Volkswagen Sharan | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | GL | Sharan |
Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
Body Type | SUV | Minivan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5459 cc | 1786 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
Horse Power | 383 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 530 Nm | 210 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 98 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 90.5 mm | 86.4 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 9.3:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 2445 kg | 1674 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4630 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1740 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2850 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 100 L | 70 L |