1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 vs. 2002 Renault Espace
To start off, 2002 Renault Espace is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 would be higher. At 4,196 cc (8 cylinders), 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 (231 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 2002 Renault Espace. (177 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 should accelerate faster than 2002 Renault Espace. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Renault Espace weights approximately 220 kg more than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420.
Because 1986 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 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420. 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 (350 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420. (327 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Renault Espace will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 | 2002 Renault Espace | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | 420 | Espace |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4196 cc | 2958 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 231 HP | 177 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 327 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.9 mm | 82 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1625 kg | 1845 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2810 mm |
