1996 BMW M3 vs. 2005 Renault Grand Espace
To start off, 2005 Renault Grand Espace is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Renault Grand Espace is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW M3 (326 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 88 more horse power than 2005 Renault Grand Espace. (238 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Renault Grand Espace. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Renault Grand Espace weights approximately 248 kg more than 1996 BMW M3.
Because 1996 BMW M3 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 1996 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Renault Grand 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, 2005 Renault Grand Espace (330 Nm) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW M3. (305 Nm). This means 2005 Renault Grand Espace will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW M3. 2005 Renault Grand Espace has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Renault Grand Espace will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW M3 | 2005 Renault Grand Espace | |
| Make | BMW | Renault |
| Model | M3 | Grand Espace |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3001 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 326 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.2 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.9 mm | 81.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1588 kg | 1836 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2630 mm |
