2002 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1985 Renault Espace
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Renault Espace. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Renault Espace would be higher. At 3,724 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL (242 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 140 more horse power than 1985 Renault Espace. (102 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1985 Renault Espace. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 585 kg more than 1985 Renault Espace. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL (350 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 190 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Renault Espace. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Renault Espace.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1985 Renault Espace | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | SL | Espace |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3724 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 242 HP | 102 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 175 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1755 kg | 1170 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 68 L |
