1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 vs. 1991 Renault Espace
To start off, 1991 Renault Espace is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 would be higher. At 2,298 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 (134 HP) has 30 more horse power than 1991 Renault Espace. (104 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 should accelerate faster than 1991 Renault Espace. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Renault Espace weights approximately 90 kg more than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230.
Because 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 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 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. 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, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 (205 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Renault Espace. (159 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Renault Espace.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 | 1991 Renault Espace | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | 230 | Espace |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2298 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 104 HP |
| Torque | 205 Nm | 159 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.5 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.3 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 173 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.5 seconds | 14.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1700 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.9 L/100km | 8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 77 L |
