1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 vs. 2006 Renault Vel Satis
To start off, 2006 Renault Vel Satis is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 would be higher. At 3,818 cc (8 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Renault Vel Satis (239 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380. (215 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Renault Vel Satis should accelerate faster than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Renault Vel Satis weights approximately 199 kg more than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 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 380. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Renault Vel Satis (330 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380. (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Renault Vel Satis will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 | 2006 Renault Vel Satis | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | 380 | Vel Satis |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3818 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 239 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.8 mm | 81.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 216 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1596 kg | 1795 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 80 L |
