2008 Ford Explorer vs. 1997 Renault Espace
To start off, 2008 Ford Explorer is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Renault Espace. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Renault Espace would be higher. At 4,013 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Explorer (210 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1997 Renault Espace. (166 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1997 Renault Espace. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Explorer weights approximately 427 kg more than 1997 Renault Espace. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Ford Explorer 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 Ford Explorer. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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 Ford Explorer (344 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 109 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Renault Espace. (235 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Renault Espace.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Explorer | 1997 Renault Espace | |
| Make | Ford | Renault |
| Model | Explorer | Espace |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | SUV | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 4013 cc | 2963 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 166 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 344 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2077 kg | 1650 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5350 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1700 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3320 mm | 2710 mm |
