1976 Mercedes-Benz 250 vs. 1997 Renault Espace
To start off, 1997 Renault Espace is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mercedes-Benz 250. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mercedes-Benz 250 would be higher. At 2,525 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Mercedes-Benz 250 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Mercedes-Benz 250 (127 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1997 Renault Espace. (111 HP @ 4300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1976 Mercedes-Benz 250 should accelerate faster than 1997 Renault Espace. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Renault Espace weights approximately 270 kg more than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 250.
Because 1976 Mercedes-Benz 250 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 1976 Mercedes-Benz 250. 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, 1997 Renault Espace (234 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 250. (196 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Renault Espace will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 250.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Mercedes-Benz 250 | 1997 Renault Espace | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | 250 | Espace |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2525 cc | 2187 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 127 HP | 111 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 234 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.5 mm | 92 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1700 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2710 mm |
