1996 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 1998 Renault Grand Espace
To start off, 1998 Renault Grand Espace is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz E (275 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 137 more horse power than 1998 Renault Grand Espace. (138 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1998 Renault Grand Espace. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 392 kg more than 1998 Renault Grand Espace. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz E (400 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 218 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Renault Grand Espace. (182 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Renault Grand Espace. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 1998 Renault Grand Espace has manual transmission. 1998 Renault Grand Espace will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz E | 1998 Renault Grand Espace | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | E | Grand Espace |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4266 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 275 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 182 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2052 kg | 1660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2880 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 70 L |
