1997 Renault Espace vs. 2008 Volvo S40
To start off, 2008 Volvo S40 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Renault Espace. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Renault Espace would be higher. At 2,187 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Renault Espace is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Renault Espace weights approximately 375 kg more than 2008 Volvo S40.
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, 1997 Renault Espace (234 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volvo S40. (190 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Renault Espace will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volvo S40. 2008 Volvo S40 has automatic transmission and 1997 Renault Espace has manual transmission. 1997 Renault Espace will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volvo S40 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Renault Espace | 2008 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Renault | Volvo |
| Model | Espace | S40 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2187 cc | 1948 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 111 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 234 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1255 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1700 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2570 mm |
