1982 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 2002 Renault Espace
To start off, 2002 Renault Espace is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Renault Espace is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Renault Espace (237 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 1982 Mercedes-Benz 300. (123 HP @ 4350 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Renault Espace should accelerate faster than 1982 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Renault Espace weights approximately 150 kg more than 1982 Mercedes-Benz 300. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1982 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 1982 Mercedes-Benz 300. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Renault Espace (320 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Mercedes-Benz 300. (250 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2002 Renault Espace will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Mercedes-Benz 300.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 2002 Renault Espace | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | 300 | Espace |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2998 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 237 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4350 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 21.5:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 165 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 15.3 seconds | 8.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1620 kg | 1770 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 83 L |
