1996 BMW 520 vs. 2002 Renault Grand Espace
To start off, 2002 Renault Grand Espace is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 520 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Renault Grand Espace is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Renault Grand Espace (162 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1996 BMW 520. (150 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Renault Grand Espace should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Renault Grand Espace weights approximately 269 kg more than 1996 BMW 520. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW 520 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 1996 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Renault Grand 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 Grand Espace (250 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 520. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2002 Renault Grand Espace will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 520. 2002 Renault Grand Espace has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW 520 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW 520 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Renault Grand Espace will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 520 | 2002 Renault Grand Espace | |
| Make | BMW | Renault |
| Model | 520 | Grand Espace |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1990 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 162 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 197 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1496 kg | 1765 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 83 L |
