The RENAULT ESPACE (1997-03) 5DR MPV 2.0 16V THE RACE 7-SEAT is a family people carrier from an era when MPVs were a popular alternative to estate cars. Its seven seats and roomy cabin suit families, school runs and anyone needing flexible space, rather than drivers seeking a small, easy-to-park city car. The 2.0-litre petrol engine and The Race trim give this Espace a comfortable character; its main appeal is carrying people and luggage together. Compared with rivals such as the Ford Galaxy and Volkswagen Sharan, the Renault is known for its spacious approach to family travel. As an older, sizeable MPV, check condition and running costs carefully, and make sure all seven seats suit your needs. mycarcheck.com records just five checks across four VINs, so the figures are indicative, not definitive. Averages are 110,000 miles, 1,000 miles a year, 4.4 previous keepers and £200 for private sale.