Carruaje vs. coche
In Spanish, 'carruaje' and 'coche' can both refer to types of carriage, especially in historical contexts or when describing horse-drawn vehicles. Despite their similar usage context, there are nuances in their meanings and connotations.
Carruaje
'Carruaje' refers to a horse-drawn vehicle typically designed for transport of people. The term implies a certain level of elegance and is often associated with historical or ceremonial contexts.
El carruaje del siglo XVIII fue restaurado para el museo.
(The 18th-century carriage was restored for the museum.)
La novia llegó a la iglesia en un carruaje tirado por caballos blancos.
(The bride arrived at the church in a carriage drawn by white horses.)
Los carruajes de la procesión real fueron adornados con flores y banderas.
(The royal procession's carriages were adorned with flowers and flags.)
Coche
'Coche' is a generic term used for 'car' in modern Spanish, but historically it refers to a four-wheeled horse-drawn vehicle. It is less specific than 'carruaje' and does not necessarily convey the same level of luxury or formality.
Antiguamente, ir al pueblo en coche llevaba varias horas.
(In the past, going to town by carriage took several hours.)
El coche está esperando fuera para llevarnos al teatro.
(The carriage is waiting outside to take us to the theater.)
Debido a una avería del coche, tuvieron que continuar el viaje a pie.
(Due to a breakdown of the carriage, they had to continue the journey on foot.)
Summary
Both 'carruaje' and 'coche' can refer to horse-drawn vehicles of earlier times. Carruaje' implies a more elegant and perhaps ceremonial vehicle, often with specific historical associations. On the other hand, 'coche' is less formal and can be used more broadly, although in contemporary Spanish it primarily refers to a modern motor vehicle.