1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 1997 Renault Espace
To start off, 1997 Renault Espace is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 (185 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1997 Renault Espace. (111 HP @ 4300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 1997 Renault Espace. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Renault Espace weights approximately 15 kg more than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Because 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 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 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Renault 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, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 (238 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Renault Espace. (234 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Renault Espace.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 1997 Renault Espace | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | 280 | Espace |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 2187 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 111 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Torque | 238 Nm | 234 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 92 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 1630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4970 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1700 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2710 mm |
