1996 Opel Astra 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 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Opel Astra would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Renault Grand Espace is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Renault Grand Espace (242 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 153 more horse power than 1996 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Renault Grand Espace should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Renault Grand Espace weights approximately 500 kg more than 1996 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 (330 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 205 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Astra. (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Renault Grand Espace will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Astra. 2002 Renault Grand Espace has automatic transmission and 1996 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 1996 Opel Astra 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 Opel Astra | 2002 Renault Grand Espace | |
| Make | Opel | Renault |
| Model | Astra | Grand Espace |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1389 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 242 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77.7 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.4 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1650 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2740 mm |
