1996 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2008 Renault Espace
To start off, 2008 Renault Espace is newer by 12 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 2,956 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Renault Espace is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Renault Espace (175 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Renault Espace should accelerate faster than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Renault Espace weights approximately 510 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, 2008 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, 2008 Renault Espace (350 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. (170 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2008 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 | 2008 Renault Espace | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | C | Espace |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1797 cc | 2956 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.3 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.7 mm | 82 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1920 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1700 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 83 L |
