1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2008 Renault Grand Espace
To start off, 2008 Renault Grand Espace is newer by 35 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 (156 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2008 Renault Grand Espace. (148 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2008 Renault Grand Espace. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Renault Grand Espace weights approximately 340 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, 2008 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, 2008 Renault Grand Espace (320 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Renault Grand Espace will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 2008 Renault Grand Espace | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | 280 | Grand Espace |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 2188 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 156 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 223 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 200 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2880 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 83 L |
