2009 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2003 Volkswagen Sharan
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 6 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 2,034 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen Sharan (148 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 2009 Mercedes-Benz A. (134 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Sharan should accelerate faster than 2009 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen Sharan weights approximately 449 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2003 Volkswagen Sharan (210 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mercedes-Benz A. (185 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen Sharan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz A | 2003 Volkswagen Sharan | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | A | Sharan |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2034 cc | 1786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1674 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 70 L |
