1988 BMW M3 vs. 1997 Renault Espace
To start off, 1997 Renault Espace is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,302 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW M3 (192 HP @ 6750 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 1997 Renault Espace. (111 HP @ 4300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Renault Espace. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Renault Espace weights approximately 334 kg more than 1988 BMW M3.
Because 1988 BMW M3 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 1988 BMW M3. 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, 1997 Renault Espace (234 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW M3. (230 Nm @ 4750 RPM). This means 1997 Renault Espace will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW M3 | 1997 Renault Espace | |
| Make | BMW | Renault |
| Model | M3 | Espace |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2302 cc | 2187 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 192 HP | 111 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 234 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.4 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 92 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1296 kg | 1630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1700 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2710 mm |
