1998 Opel Astra vs. 2002 Renault Espace
To start off, 2002 Renault Espace is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Opel Astra would be higher. At 2,944 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Renault Espace is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Renault Espace (174 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (74 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Renault Espace should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Renault Espace weights approximately 645 kg more than 1998 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2002 Renault Espace (350 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 185 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (165 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2002 Renault Espace will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Astra. 2002 Renault Espace has automatic transmission and 1998 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 1998 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Renault Espace will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Opel Astra | 2002 Renault Espace | |
| Make | Opel | Renault |
| Model | Astra | Espace |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1698 cc | 2944 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 174 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1845 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 83 L |
