Renault Espace I (J11/13, Phase II 1988) 2.1 TD (88 Hp)


Overall Rating

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Performance N/A / 5
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Comfort N/A / 5
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Renault Espace:

The Renault Espace is a series of automobiles manufactured by Renault since 1984. For its first five generations, the Espace was a multi-purpose vehicle/MPV , but it has been redesigned as a mid-size crossover SUV for its sixth generation.
The first three generations of the Espace were amongst the first contemporary minivans or MPVs, and were manufactured by Matra for Renault. The fourth generation, also an MPV, was manufactured by Renault. The Renault Grand Espace is a long wheelbase version with increased rear leg room and boot size. The fifth generation is introduced with a crossover SUV-styled while keeping its MPV classification and body style. Renault described the fifth generation Espace as a 'crossover-style MPV' which combines elements of saloon, SUV and MPV, while retaining interior space and practicality of the latter. The sixth generation debuted in 2023 as a 7-seater SUV based on the Austral....(Read more on Wikipedia)

I (J11/13, Phase II 1988) Overview:

Renault Espace (I (J11/13, Phase II 1988)). With 182 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. It has moderate fuel consumption (~8 l/100km). With a weight of 1408 kg, it falls in the mid‑range. Front‑wheel drive delivers efficiency and easy handling. Acceleration is relatively slow (0–100 km/h in 13.1 s). The top speed reaches 165 km/h. A spacious vehicle designed to transport passengers comfortably, often with sliding doors. A multi-purpose vehicle designed to transport passengers with ample interior space. With seating for 7, it’s perfect for larger families.

2.1 TD (88 Hp) Verdict:

Rating 6 stars

Performance Verdict

Offers adequate, albeit unhurried, performance for its size, with decent torque for highway cruising. Not built for speed.

Fuel Economy

Remarkably efficient for its time, especially on extra-urban cycles, making it a cost-effective long-distance runner.

Best Use Case: Highway / Long-distance commuting

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

  • • Pioneering MPV design offering exceptional space and versatility
  • • Comfortable ride quality, ideal for long journeys
  • • Flexible seating arrangements for family needs
  • • Good visibility from the driver's seat
  • • Efficient diesel option for its era

Cons:

  • • Safety standards are dated compared to modern vehicles
  • • Some petrol engines can feel underpowered for a fully loaded vehicle
  • • Older Renault reliability can be a concern for some components
  • • Driving dynamics are more focused on comfort than sportiness
  • • Lack of modern amenities and safety features

Specifications:

Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(I (J11/13): 1985 - 1988).

General:
Brand:Renault
Model:Espace
Generation:I (J11/13, Phase II 1988)
Modification (Engine):2.1 TD (88 Hp)
Start of production:1988
End of production:1991
Powertrain Architecture:Internal Combustion engine
Body type:Minivan, MPV
Seats:7
Doors:5
Engine:
Power:88 Hp @ 4250 rpm. Same horsepower
Power per litre:42.6 Hp/l [115mm more]
Torque:182 Nm @ 2000 rpm.
Engine Model/Code:J8S 240/774 More details about the engine J8S 240/774
Engine displacement:2068
Number of cylinders:4
Engine configuration:Inline
Number of valves per cylinder:2
Fuel injection system:Precombustion chamber injection
Engine aspiration:Turbocharger
Valvetrain:SOHC
Engine oil capacity:6.3 l
Coolant:7.2 l
Engine layout:Front, Longitudinal
Cylinder Bore:86 mm mm
Piston Stroke:89 mm mm
Compression ratio:21.5:1
Performance:
Fuel Type:Diesel
Fuel consumption (economy) - urban:8 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban:5.1 l/100 km
Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h:13.1 sec
Acceleration 0 - 62 mph:13.1 sec
Maximum speed:165 km/h
Weight-to-power ratio:16 kg/Hp, 62.5 Hp/tonne
Weight-to-torque ratio:7.7 kg/Nm, 129.3 Nm/tonne
Acceleration 0 - 60 mph:12.4 sec
Space:
Kerb Weight:1408
Max. weight:1925
Max. roof load:70 kg
Max load:517
Trunk (boot) space - maximum:3060 l
Trunk (boot) space - minimum:580 l
Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%):1800 kg
Fuel tank capacity:63 l
Permitted trailer load without brakes:550 kg
Size:
Length:4365 mm mm [115mm more]
Width:1777 mm mm [Same width.]
Height:1660 mm mm [Same height.]
Wheelbase:2580 mm mm [Same wheelbase.]
Front track:1467 mm
Rear (Back) track:1489 mm
Front overhang:920 mm
Rear overhang:865 mm
Ride height (ground clearance):150-125 mm
Minimum turning circle (turning diameter):12.4 m [above average]
Powertrain:
Drivetrain ArchitectureThe Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle.
Drive wheelFront wheel drive
Number of gears5
Transmission typeManual
Front brakesVentilated discs [Best for performance and cooling.]
Rear brakesDisc [above average]
Steering typeSteering rack and pinion
Tires size195/65 R14
Wheel rims size14
Front suspensionIndependent type McPherson

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