1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2005 Renault Espace
To start off, 2005 Renault Espace is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Renault Espace is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Renault Espace (238 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. (182 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Renault Espace should accelerate faster than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Renault Espace weights approximately 210 kg more than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 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 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Renault Espace (330 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. (233 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2005 Renault Espace will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 2005 Renault Espace | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | 280 | Espace |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 182 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 233 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11 seconds | 8.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1700 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 83 L |
