1996 Mazda 626 vs. 2006 Renault Grand Espace
To start off, 2006 Renault Grand Espace is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 3,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Renault Grand Espace is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Renault Grand Espace (238 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 149 more horse power than 1996 Mazda 626. (89 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Renault Grand Espace should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Renault Grand Espace weights approximately 700 kg more than 1996 Mazda 626. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2006 Renault Grand Espace (330 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 185 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda 626. (145 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2006 Renault Grand Espace will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda 626. 2006 Renault Grand Espace has automatic transmission and 1996 Mazda 626 has manual transmission. 1996 Mazda 626 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Renault Grand Espace will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mazda 626 | 2006 Renault Grand Espace | |
| Make | Mazda | Renault |
| Model | 626 | Grand Espace |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 3496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1890 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4700 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2880 mm |
