1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1994 Renault Espace

To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 Renault Espace. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 Renault Espace would be higher. At 2,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (204 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1994 Renault Espace. (104 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1994 Renault Espace. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 360 kg more than 1994 Renault Espace. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1994 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (270 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 111 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Renault Espace. (159 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Renault Espace. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1994 Renault Espace has manual transmission. 1994 Renault Espace will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1998 Mercedes-Benz SL 1994 Renault Espace
Make Mercedes-Benz Renault
Model SL Espace
Year Released 1998 1994
Body Type Convertible Minivan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2799 cc 1995 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 204 HP 104 HP
Engine RPM 5700 RPM 5250 RPM
Torque 270 Nm 159 Nm
Torque RPM 3000 RPM 2500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 89.9 mm 88.1 mm
Engine Stroke Size 73.5 mm 82 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.1:1 9.2:1
Acceleration 0-100mph 9.8 seconds 13.8 seconds
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1810 kg 1450 kg
Vehicle Length 4510 mm 4440 mm
Vehicle Width 1820 mm 1800 mm
Vehicle Height 1300 mm 1700 mm
Wheelbase Size 2520 mm 2680 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 80 L 77 L