1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 vs. 1991 Renault Espace
To start off, 1991 Renault Espace is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 would be higher. At 2,399 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Renault Espace (89 HP @ 4250 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. (72 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Renault Espace should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Renault Espace weights approximately 165 kg more than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 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 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 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, 1991 Renault Espace (182 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. (137 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1991 Renault Espace will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 | 1991 Renault Espace | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | 240 | Espace |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2399 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 182 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 91 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.4 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 21.0:1 | 21.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1700 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2590 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 77 L |
