2006 Renault Espace vs. 2011 Lexus IS
To start off, 2011 Lexus IS is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Renault Espace. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Renault Espace would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Lexus IS (306 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 138 more horse power than 2006 Renault Espace. (168 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2006 Renault Espace. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Renault Espace weights approximately 160 kg more than 2011 Lexus IS.
Because 2011 Lexus IS 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 2011 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2011 Lexus IS (375 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 124 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Renault Espace. (251 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2011 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Renault Espace. 2011 Lexus IS has automatic transmission and 2006 Renault Espace has manual transmission. 2006 Renault Espace will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Renault Espace | 2011 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Renault | Lexus |
| Model | Espace | IS |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 306 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 375 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1760 kg | 1600 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1801 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1700 mm | 1425 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2728 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 65 L |
