2006 Renault Grand Espace vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Renault Grand Espace. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Renault Grand Espace 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 125 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (113 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Renault Grand Espace should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 3.
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 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (270 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2006 Renault Grand Espace will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3. 2006 Renault Grand Espace has automatic transmission and 2012 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2012 Mazda 3 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:
| 2006 Renault Grand Espace | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Renault | Mazda |
| Model | Grand Espace | 3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3496 cc | 1560 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1750 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 55 L |
