1978 Mazda RX-3 vs. 2008 Renault Espace
To start off, 2008 Renault Espace is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda RX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda RX-3 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Renault Espace is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Renault Espace (168 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 1978 Mazda RX-3. (100 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Renault Espace should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda RX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Renault Espace weights approximately 910 kg more than 1978 Mazda RX-3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Mazda RX-3 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 1978 Mazda RX-3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Renault Espace (250 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda RX-3. (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Renault Espace will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda RX-3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mazda RX-3 | 2008 Renault Espace | |
| Make | Mazda | Renault |
| Model | RX-3 | Espace |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1963 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 1760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1700 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 83 L |
