2009 BMW X3 vs. 1998 Volkswagen Sharan
To start off, 2009 BMW X3 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volkswagen Sharan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volkswagen Sharan would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW X3 (148 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Sharan. (113 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Sharan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volkswagen Sharan weights approximately 59 kg more than 2009 BMW X3.
Because 2009 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Volkswagen Sharan. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 BMW X3 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, 2009 BMW X3 (200 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Sharan. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Sharan.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW X3 | 1998 Volkswagen Sharan | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | X3 | Sharan |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Body Type | SUV | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 8 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1656 kg | 1715 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 70 L |
