1972 BMW 3 vs. 2005 Renault Vel Satis
To start off, 2005 Renault Vel Satis is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 BMW 3 would be higher. At 3,003 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 BMW 3 (197 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 2005 Renault Vel Satis. (161 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Renault Vel Satis. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Renault Vel Satis weights approximately 445 kg more than 1972 BMW 3.
Because 1972 BMW 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 1972 BMW 3. 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, 1972 BMW 3 (272 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Renault Vel Satis. (251 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1972 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Renault Vel Satis.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 BMW 3 | 2005 Renault Vel Satis | |
| Make | BMW | Renault |
| Model | 3 | Vel Satis |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3003 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 272 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.3 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 93 mm |
| Top Speed | 214 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.5 seconds | 9.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 1715 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2750 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |
