1996 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2006 Renault Espace
To start off, 2006 Renault Espace is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Renault Espace is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Renault Espace (161 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Renault Espace should accelerate faster than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Renault Espace weights approximately 350 kg more than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Mercedes-Benz C 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 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Renault Espace (250 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. (170 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2006 Renault Espace will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz C | 2006 Renault Espace | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | C | Espace |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1797 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 2110 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2870 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 83 L |
