2009 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1999 Volkswagen Sharan
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Volkswagen Sharan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Volkswagen Sharan would be higher. At 2,148 cc, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (169 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1999 Volkswagen Sharan. (114 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1999 Volkswagen Sharan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volkswagen Sharan weights approximately 490 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 230 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Volkswagen Sharan. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Volkswagen Sharan.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | 1999 Volkswagen Sharan | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | C | Sharan |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 1984 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 169 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1715 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 55 L |
