2008 BMW 550 vs. 1988 Renault Espace

To start off, 2008 BMW 550 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Renault Espace. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Renault Espace would be higher. At 4,799 cc, 2008 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 550 (360 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 258 more horse power than 1988 Renault Espace. (102 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1988 Renault Espace. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 550 weights approximately 490 kg more than 1988 Renault Espace. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2008 BMW 550 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 2008 BMW 550. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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, 2008 BMW 550 (490 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 332 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Renault Espace. (158 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Renault Espace. 2008 BMW 550 has automatic transmission and 1988 Renault Espace has manual transmission. 1988 Renault Espace will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW 550 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2008 BMW 550 1988 Renault Espace
Make BMW Renault
Model 550 Espace
Year Released 2008 1988
Body Type Sedan Minivan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4799 cc 1995 cc
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 2 valves
Horse Power 360 HP 102 HP
Engine RPM 6300 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 490 Nm 158 Nm
Torque RPM 3400 RPM 3000 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 10.5:1 9.2:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1660 kg 1170 kg
Vehicle Length 4860 mm 4370 mm
Vehicle Width 1850 mm 1780 mm
Vehicle Height 1470 mm 1660 mm
Wheelbase Size 2890 mm 2670 mm
Fuel Consumption Overall 7.8 L/100km 9.8 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 68 L