1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 vs. 1997 Renault Espace
To start off, 1997 Renault Espace is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 would be higher. At 4,196 cc (8 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 (218 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1997 Renault Espace. (166 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 should accelerate faster than 1997 Renault Espace. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Renault Espace weights approximately 50 kg more than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420.
Because 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 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 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 (329 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Renault Espace. (235 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Renault Espace.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 | 1997 Renault Espace | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | 420 | Espace |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 4196 cc | 2963 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 218 HP | 166 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 329 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1600 kg | 1650 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5070 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1700 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2710 mm |
