1954 Austin-Healey 100 vs. 2005 Renault Vel Satis
To start off, 2005 Renault Vel Satis is newer by 51 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 Austin-Healey 100. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 Austin-Healey 100 would be higher. At 2,660 cc (4 cylinders), 1954 Austin-Healey 100 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Renault Vel Satis (168 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1954 Austin-Healey 100. (90 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Renault Vel Satis should accelerate faster than 1954 Austin-Healey 100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Renault Vel Satis weights approximately 695 kg more than 1954 Austin-Healey 100. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1954 Austin-Healey 100 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 1954 Austin-Healey 100. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Renault Vel Satis, 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 Vel Satis (270 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 126 more torque (in Nm) than 1954 Austin-Healey 100. (144 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2005 Renault Vel Satis will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1954 Austin-Healey 100.
Compare all specifications:
| 1954 Austin-Healey 100 | 2005 Renault Vel Satis | |
| Make | Austin-Healey | Renault |
| Model | 100 | Vel Satis |
| Year Released | 1954 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2660 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.3 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 111.1 mm | 93 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 945 kg | 1640 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2630 mm |
