2008 Nissan Altima vs. 1997 Volkswagen Sharan
To start off, 2008 Nissan Altima is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Sharan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Sharan would be higher. At 3,490 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Nissan Altima (270 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 157 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Sharan. (113 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Sharan.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Nissan Altima (350 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Sharan. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Sharan.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Nissan Altima | 1997 Volkswagen Sharan | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | Altima | Sharan |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3490 cc | 1894 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 270 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 8 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 70 L |
