1978 Opel Rekord vs. 2008 Renault Grand Espace
To start off, 2008 Renault Grand Espace is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Opel Rekord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Opel Rekord would be higher. At 2,188 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Renault Grand Espace is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Renault Grand Espace (148 HP) has 48 more horse power than 1978 Opel Rekord. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Renault Grand Espace should accelerate faster than 1978 Opel Rekord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Renault Grand Espace weights approximately 780 kg more than 1978 Opel Rekord. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Opel Rekord 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 Opel Rekord. 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 172 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Opel Rekord. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2008 Renault Grand Espace will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Opel Rekord.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Opel Rekord | 2008 Renault Grand Espace | |
| Make | Opel | Renault |
| Model | Rekord | Grand Espace |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1978 cc | 2188 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 148 HP |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69.8 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2880 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 83 L |
