1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2006 Renault Espace
To start off, 2006 Renault Espace is newer by 8 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 3,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Renault Espace is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Renault Espace (238 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (204 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Renault Espace should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Renault Espace weights approximately 35 kg more than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 2006 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, 2006 Renault Espace (330 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (270 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Renault Espace will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2006 Renault Espace | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | SL | Espace |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2799 cc | 3497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 204 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.5 mm | 81.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 228 km/hour | 225 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.8 seconds | 8.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1810 kg | 1845 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 2110 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2870 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 83 L |
