1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 vs. 2004 Renault Espace
To start off, 2004 Renault Espace is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 would be higher. At 2,946 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Renault Espace is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Renault Espace (175 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230. (134 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Renault Espace should accelerate faster than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Renault Espace weights approximately 503 kg more than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 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 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Renault Espace (350 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 145 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230. (205 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 Renault Espace will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 | 2004 Renault Espace | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | 230 | Espace |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2299 cc | 2946 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 205 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 193 km/hour | 205 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.4 seconds | 10.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1848 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1700 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2750 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.6 L/100km | 9.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 83 L |
