2008 Mercedes-Benz ML vs. 2003 Volkswagen Sharan
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML 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 2,685 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML (167 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen Sharan. (148 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen Sharan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 501 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 ML 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 ML. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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 ML (400 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 190 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volkswagen Sharan. (210 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volkswagen Sharan. 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML 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 ML will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Mercedes-Benz ML | 2003 Volkswagen Sharan | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | ML | Sharan |
Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
Body Type | SUV | Minivan |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 2685 cc | 1786 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
Horse Power | 167 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 400 Nm | 210 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 88.4 mm | 86.4 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.3:1 |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 2175 kg | 1674 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4630 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1740 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2850 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 70 L |