2009 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1997 Renault Espace
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 12 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 2,187 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Renault Espace is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (168 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1997 Renault Espace. (111 HP @ 4300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1997 Renault Espace.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz C 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 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 166 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Renault Espace. (234 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Renault Espace.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | 1997 Renault Espace | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | C | Espace |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 2187 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 111 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 234 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88.1 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 92 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1700 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2710 mm |
