1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2003 Renault Espace
To start off, 2003 Renault Espace is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 3,197 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (224 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 2003 Renault Espace. (137 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2003 Renault Espace. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 69 kg more than 2003 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, 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (315 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Renault Espace. (200 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Renault Espace. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL 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. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2003 Renault Espace | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
Model | SL | Espace |
Year Released | 1998 | 2003 |
Body Type | Convertible | Minivan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3197 cc | 1998 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 224 HP | 137 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5750 RPM |
Torque | 315 Nm | 200 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 | 10.1:1 | 10.0:1 |
Top Speed | 238 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.4 seconds | 12.5 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 7 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 1761 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4670 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1730 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2700 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 83 L |