1988 Renault Espace I (J11/13, Phase II 1988) Dimensions, Size & Specs

The curb weight of the 1988 Renault Espace I Phase II ranges between 1190 kg and 1408 kg (2623 to 3104 pounds), depending on specific configurations and equipment. The maximum permissible weight varies between 1820 kg and 2045 kg (4012 to 4509 pounds), which accounts for passengers and cargo load. This weight allows for a sturdy build while maintaining efficient handling and fuel consumption for its class.

This generation of Renault Espace offers a generous luggage capacity. With all rear seats in use, the luggage space is 580 liters (20.5 cubic feet), which is suitable for daily errands and moderate family trips. When the rear seats are folded down, the capacity expands substantially to 3060 liters (108 cubic feet), making it highly versatile for transporting larger items or extensive luggage, which enhances its practicality as a family minivan.

The ground clearance of the Renault Espace I Phase II varies between 138 mm and 150 mm (5.4 to 5.9 inches), which is adequate for city driving and light off-road conditions typical for a minivan. The roof load capacity is rated at 70 kg (154 pounds), allowing users to fit roof boxes, luggage racks, or small sports equipment, expanding its utility without sacrificing safety.

The 1988 Renault Espace I Phase II, with a width of 1777 mm (approximately 1.78 meters or 69.9 inches) and a height reaching up to 1670 mm (65.7 inches), typically fits into a standard residential garage. Most garages provide at least 2.4 meters (7.9 feet) in width and 2 meters (6.5 feet) in height clearance, comfortably accommodating the Espace and allowing room for opening doors and maneuvering. However, owners should always measure their garage specific to clearance needs, especially considering roof racks or other extensions.

The Phase II of the Renault Espace I, introduced in 1988, maintained very similar overall dimensions to the Phase I model, which debuted in 1984. Both versions share close length and width measurements—around 4360 mm in length and about 1775 to 1777 mm in width—and a comparable height near 1660 mm. Phase II featured minor refinements primarily in styling and mechanical reliability rather than size changes, keeping the interior spaciousness that defined the Espace's innovative minivan design.

Compared to its contemporaries like the Chrysler Voyager or the Volkswagen Transporter of the late 1980s, the Renault Espace I Phase II offered a slightly more compact yet comfortably spacious design. Its length of 4365 mm (171.9 inches) was moderately shorter than some competitors, facilitating easier urban navigation. The width at 1777 mm (69.9 inches) was competitive, offering sufficient interior space without the bulk. Moreover, its versatile interior with configurable seats and large cargo capacity put it ahead in terms of practicality within European markets.

The Renault Espace I Phase II commonly used 14-inch rims fitted with tire sizes such as 185/65 R14, 195/70 R14, and 195/65 R14. These tire sizes balanced ride comfort, road grip, and load capacity fitting for a minivan. The slightly varied tire profiles allowed for customization depending on driving conditions and preferences, supporting stable handling, efficient braking, and passenger comfort on both urban roads and highways.

The ride height or ground clearance of the Renault Espace I Phase II ranges from 138 mm to 150 mm (5.4 to 5.9 inches). This moderate clearance level helps the vehicle maintain good stability during everyday driving on paved roads while allowing the driver to comfortably navigate speed bumps, minor road debris, and uneven surfaces common in residential and suburban environments. It strikes a balanced approach between accessibility and avoiding road damage.

The Renault Espace I Phase II was pioneering in modular interior design for families, offering configurable seating arrangements with foldable rear seats that transform the interior space. With standard luggage capacity at 580 liters (20.5 cubic feet) and an expanded volume up to 3060 liters (108 cubic feet) when rear seats are folded, it enables transport of everything from groceries and sports equipment to bulky furniture. This flexibility, combined with comfortable passenger seating for up to seven, makes it extremely practical and family-friendly.