1971 Chevrolet Impala vs. 2004 Renault Vel Satis
To start off, 2004 Renault Vel Satis is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Chevrolet Impala. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Chevrolet Impala would be higher. At 4,092 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 Chevrolet Impala is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Renault Vel Satis (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1971 Chevrolet Impala. (110 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Renault Vel Satis should accelerate faster than 1971 Chevrolet Impala. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Renault Vel Satis weights approximately 20 kg more than 1971 Chevrolet Impala. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Chevrolet Impala 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 Chevrolet Impala. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Renault Vel Satis (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Chevrolet Impala. (256 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2004 Renault Vel Satis will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Chevrolet Impala. 2004 Renault Vel Satis has automatic transmission and 1971 Chevrolet Impala has manual transmission. 1971 Chevrolet Impala will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Renault Vel Satis will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Chevrolet Impala | 2004 Renault Vel Satis | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Renault |
| Model | Impala | Vel Satis |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4092 cc | 2188 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 256 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 98.2 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.6 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1715 kg | 1735 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5600 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2030 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3100 mm | 2700 mm |
