1998 Renault Grand Espace vs. 2012 Smart ForTwo
To start off, 2012 Smart ForTwo is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Renault Grand Espace. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Renault Grand Espace would be higher. At 2,946 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Renault Grand Espace is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Renault Grand Espace (190 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 119 more horse power than 2012 Smart ForTwo. (71 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Renault Grand Espace should accelerate faster than 2012 Smart ForTwo.
Because 2012 Smart ForTwo 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 2012 Smart ForTwo. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Renault Grand 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 Renault Grand Espace (273 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 148 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Smart ForTwo. (125 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1998 Renault Grand Espace will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Smart ForTwo. 2012 Smart ForTwo has automatic transmission and 1998 Renault Grand Espace has manual transmission. 1998 Renault Grand Espace will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Smart ForTwo will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Renault Grand Espace | 2012 Smart ForTwo | |
| Make | Renault | Smart |
| Model | Grand Espace | ForTwo |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2946 cc | 1000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 273 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
