1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 vs. 2001 Renault Vel Satis
To start off, 2001 Renault Vel Satis is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 would be higher. At 2,298 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Renault Vel Satis (163 HP) has 29 more horse power than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. (134 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Renault Vel Satis should accelerate faster than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Renault Vel Satis weights approximately 300 kg more than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 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 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. 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 (250 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. (205 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2001 Renault Vel Satis will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. 2001 Renault Vel Satis has automatic transmission and 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 has manual transmission. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Renault Vel Satis will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 | 2001 Renault Vel Satis | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | 230 | Vel Satis |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2298 cc | 1996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 163 HP |
| Torque | 205 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.5 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.3 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 205 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.5 seconds | 10.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 10.3 L/100km | 7.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 12.9 L/100km | 14.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.9 L/100km | 10.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 83 L |
