1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 vs. 2008 Renault Grand Espace
To start off, 2008 Renault Grand Espace is newer by 23 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 (219 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 2008 Renault Grand Espace. (172 HP @ 3750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 should accelerate faster than 2008 Renault Grand Espace. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Renault Grand Espace weights approximately 350 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, 2008 Renault Grand 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, 2008 Renault Grand Espace (360 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. (329 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2008 Renault Grand Espace will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 | 2008 Renault Grand Espace | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | 420 | Grand Espace |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4196 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 219 HP | 172 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Torque | 329 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.9 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 16.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 214 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9 seconds | 9.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1600 kg | 1950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2870 mm |
