2009 BMW 523 vs. 1991 Renault Espace

To start off, 2009 BMW 523 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Renault Espace. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Renault Espace would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 523 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 523 (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1991 Renault Espace. (104 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 523 should accelerate faster than 1991 Renault Espace. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 523 weights approximately 115 kg more than 1991 Renault Espace. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2009 BMW 523 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 2009 BMW 523. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 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, 2009 BMW 523 (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Renault Espace. (159 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 523 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Renault Espace.

Compare all specifications:

2009 BMW 523 1991 Renault Espace
Make BMW Renault
Model 523 Espace
Year Released 2009 1991
Body Type Sedan Minivan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2497 cc 1995 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 175 HP 104 HP
Engine RPM 5800 RPM 5250 RPM
Torque 230 Nm 159 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 2500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 82.1 mm 88 mm
Engine Stroke Size 78.8 mm 82 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 11.0:1 9.2:1
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline
Acceleration 0-100mph 8.5 seconds 14.1 seconds
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1565 kg 1450 kg
Vehicle Length 4850 mm 4440 mm
Vehicle Width 1850 mm 1800 mm
Vehicle Height 1470 mm 1700 mm
Wheelbase Size 2890 mm 2680 mm
Fuel Consumption Overall 8.5 L/100km 8 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 77 L