1971 Austin 3 vs. 2001 Renault Vel Satis
To start off, 2001 Renault Vel Satis is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Austin 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Austin 3 would be higher. At 2,958 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Renault Vel Satis is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Renault Vel Satis (179 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1971 Austin 3. (123 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Renault Vel Satis should accelerate faster than 1971 Austin 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Renault Vel Satis weights approximately 245 kg more than 1971 Austin 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Austin 3 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 1971 Austin 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2001 Renault Vel Satis (350 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 132 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Austin 3. (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2001 Renault Vel Satis will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Austin 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Austin 3 | 2001 Renault Vel Satis | |
| Make | Austin | Renault |
| Model | 3 | Vel Satis |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2910 cc | 2958 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 179 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.4 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.9 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1735 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 80 L |
