1991 Renault Espace vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Renault Espace. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Renault Espace would be higher. At 2,143 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E (201 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 108 more horse power than 1991 Renault Espace. (93 HP @ 4300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1991 Renault Espace. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 435 kg more than 1991 Renault Espace. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Mercedes-Benz E 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E (500 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 317 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Renault Espace. (183 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Renault Espace. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 1991 Renault Espace has manual transmission. 1991 Renault Espace will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Renault Espace | 2012 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Renault | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Espace | E |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2068 cc | 2143 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 93 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4300 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 500 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 162 km/hour | 244 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1825 kg |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 77 L | 80 L |
