1968 Volvo 120 vs. 2003 Renault Grand Espace
To start off, 2003 Renault Grand Espace is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Volvo 120. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Volvo 120 would be higher. At 2,187 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Renault Grand Espace is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Renault Grand Espace (148 HP) has 81 more horse power than 1968 Volvo 120. (67 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Renault Grand Espace should accelerate faster than 1968 Volvo 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Renault Grand Espace weights approximately 890 kg more than 1968 Volvo 120. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1968 Volvo 120 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 1968 Volvo 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Renault Grand Espace, 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, 2003 Renault Grand Espace (320 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 176 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Volvo 120. (144 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2003 Renault Grand Espace will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Volvo 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Volvo 120 | 2003 Renault Grand Espace | |
| Make | Volvo | Renault |
| Model | 120 | Grand Espace |
| Year Released | 1968 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1777 cc | 2187 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 148 HP |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2300 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.2 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 92 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1010 kg | 1900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2750 mm |
