2006 Renault Espace vs. 2011 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2011 Mazda RX-8 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 2,958 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Renault Espace is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 2006 Renault Espace. (176 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2006 Renault Espace. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Renault Espace weights approximately 530 kg more than 2011 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2011 Mazda RX-8 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 Mazda RX-8. 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, 2006 Renault Espace (350 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mazda RX-8. (215 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2006 Renault Espace will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mazda RX-8. 2006 Renault Espace has automatic transmission and 2011 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2011 Mazda RX-8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Renault Espace will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Renault Espace | 2011 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Renault | Mazda |
| Model | Espace | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2958 cc | 1300 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 176 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 215 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1920 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1700 mm | 1341 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2703 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 64 L |
