2002 Renault Espace vs. 1980 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2002 Renault Espace is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,188 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Renault Espace is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Renault Espace (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Golf. (53 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Renault Espace should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Renault Espace weights approximately 900 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Golf. 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 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 220 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Golf. (100 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2002 Renault Espace will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Renault Espace | 1980 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Renault | Volkswagen |
| Model | Espace | Golf |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2188 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 23.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1775 kg | 875 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 40 L |
