1981 Chevrolet Caprice vs. 2006 Renault Vel Satis
To start off, 2006 Renault Vel Satis is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Chevrolet Caprice. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Chevrolet Caprice would be higher. At 5,002 cc (8 cylinders), 1981 Chevrolet Caprice is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Renault Vel Satis (239 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 1981 Chevrolet Caprice. (148 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Renault Vel Satis should accelerate faster than 1981 Chevrolet Caprice. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Renault Vel Satis weights approximately 75 kg more than 1981 Chevrolet Caprice. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Chevrolet Caprice 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 1981 Chevrolet Caprice. 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, 1981 Chevrolet Caprice (333 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Renault Vel Satis. (330 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1981 Chevrolet Caprice will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Renault Vel Satis.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Chevrolet Caprice | 2006 Renault Vel Satis | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Renault |
| Model | Caprice | Vel Satis |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5002 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 239 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 333 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1720 kg | 1795 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5460 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2850 mm |
