2006 Renault Espace vs. 1978 Renault 5
To start off, 2006 Renault Espace is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Renault 5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Renault 5 would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Renault Espace is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Renault Espace (238 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1978 Renault 5. (158 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Renault Espace should accelerate faster than 1978 Renault 5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Renault Espace weights approximately 873 kg more than 1978 Renault 5. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Renault 5 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 1978 Renault 5. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Renault Espace (330 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 109 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Renault 5. (221 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2006 Renault Espace will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Renault 5. 2006 Renault Espace has automatic transmission and 1978 Renault 5 has manual transmission. 1978 Renault 5 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Renault Espace will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Renault Espace | 1978 Renault 5 | |
| Make | Renault | Renault |
| Model | Espace | 5 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.5 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.4 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 7.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1845 kg | 972 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 3670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1700 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 56 L |
