1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 2006 Renault Espace
To start off, 2006 Renault Espace is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 3,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Renault Espace is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Renault Espace (238 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 151 more horse power than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. (87 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Renault Espace should accelerate faster than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Renault Espace weights approximately 215 kg more than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 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 300. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Renault Espace (330 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 158 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. (172 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2006 Renault Espace will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. 2006 Renault Espace has automatic transmission and 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 has manual transmission. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Renault Espace will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 2006 Renault Espace | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | 300 | Espace |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 3497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 87 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 172 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90.9 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.4 mm | 81.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 21.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1845 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5350 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 2110 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3430 mm | 2870 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 83 L |
