1991 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1997 Renault Espace
To start off, 1997 Renault Espace is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,961 cc (6 cylinders), 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL (228 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 1997 Renault Espace. (111 HP @ 4300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1997 Renault Espace. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 60 kg more than 1997 Renault Espace. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL (272 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Renault Espace. (234 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Renault Espace.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1997 Renault Espace | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | SL | Espace |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2961 cc | 2187 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 111 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Torque | 272 Nm | 234 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88.5 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.3 mm | 92 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 1630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1700 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2710 mm |
