1997 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2003 Renault Espace
To start off, 2003 Renault Espace is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz E (349 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 212 more horse power than 2003 Renault Espace. (137 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2003 Renault Espace. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Renault Espace weights approximately 51 kg more than 1997 Mercedes-Benz E.
Because 1997 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 1997 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz E (531 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 331 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Renault Espace. (200 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Renault Espace. 1997 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 2003 Renault Espace has manual transmission. 2003 Renault Espace will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz E | 2003 Renault Espace | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | E | Espace |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5439 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 349 HP | 137 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 531 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 93 mm |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.7 seconds | 12.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1710 kg | 1761 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 8.8 L/100km | 7.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 17.8 L/100km | 12.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.1 L/100km | 12.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 83 L |
