1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2008 Renault Espace
To start off, 2008 Renault Espace is newer by 28 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 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 (185 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 2008 Renault Espace. (134 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2008 Renault Espace. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Renault Espace weights approximately 240 kg more than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280.
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, 2008 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, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Renault Espace. (191 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Renault Espace.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 2008 Renault Espace | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | 280 | Espace |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 191 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 200 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1700 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2810 mm |
