2002 Renault Espace vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2002 Renault Espace is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Renault Espace is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Renault Espace (175 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Renault Espace should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Renault Espace weights approximately 510 kg more than 1997 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 (250 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2002 Renault Espace will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. 1997 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 2002 Renault Espace has manual transmission. 2002 Renault Espace will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Renault Espace | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Renault | Volkswagen |
| Model | Espace | Golf |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1685 kg | 1175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 55 L |
