1978 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2002 Renault Espace
To start off, 2002 Renault Espace is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,998 cc (5 cylinders), 1978 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Mercedes-Benz S (114 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 2002 Renault Espace. (107 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2002 Renault Espace. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 515 kg more than 2002 Renault Espace. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Mercedes-Benz S 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 S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Renault Espace (271 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (231 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2002 Renault Espace will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Mercedes-Benz S | 2002 Renault Espace | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
Model | S | Espace |
Year Released | 1978 | 2002 |
Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2998 cc | 1870 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 114 HP | 107 HP |
Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 231 Nm | 271 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 2215 kg | 1700 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4970 mm | 4670 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1870 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1730 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2750 mm |