2007 Renault Espace vs. 1981 Volvo 260
To start off, 2007 Renault Espace is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volvo 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volvo 260 would be higher. At 2,849 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Volvo 260 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Volvo 260 (153 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 2007 Renault Espace. (118 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Volvo 260 should accelerate faster than 2007 Renault Espace. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Renault Espace weights approximately 400 kg more than 1981 Volvo 260.
Because 1981 Volvo 260 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 1981 Volvo 260. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2007 Renault Espace (270 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 260. (231 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2007 Renault Espace will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 260.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Renault Espace | 1981 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Renault | Volvo |
| Model | Espace | 260 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1869 cc | 2849 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 73 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1770 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1700 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2660 mm |
