2008 Ford Explorer vs. 1998 Renault Grand Espace
To start off, 2008 Ford Explorer is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Renault Grand Espace. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Renault Grand 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 20 more horse power than 1998 Renault Grand Espace. (190 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1998 Renault Grand Espace. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Explorer weights approximately 357 kg more than 1998 Renault Grand 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, 1998 Renault Grand 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 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Renault Grand Espace. (273 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Renault Grand Espace. 2008 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 1998 Renault Grand Espace has manual transmission. 1998 Renault Grand Espace will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Explorer | 1998 Renault Grand Espace | |
| Make | Ford | Renault |
| Model | Explorer | Grand Espace |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Body Type | SUV | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4013 cc | 2946 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 344 Nm | 273 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2077 kg | 1720 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5350 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3320 mm | 2880 mm |
