1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2002 Renault Grand Espace
To start off, 2002 Renault Grand Espace is newer by 29 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 2,778 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 (160 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2002 Renault Grand Espace. (138 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2002 Renault Grand Espace. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Renault Grand Espace weights approximately 160 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, 2002 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, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 (224 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Renault Grand Espace. (183 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Renault Grand Espace.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 2002 Renault Grand Espace | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | 280 | Grand Espace |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2778 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.5 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 93 mm |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 197 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4910 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 82 L | 70 L |
