1981 Porsche 944 vs. 2008 Renault Vel Satis
To start off, 2008 Renault Vel Satis is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Porsche 944. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Porsche 944 would be higher. At 2,958 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Renault Vel Satis is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Renault Vel Satis (175 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1981 Porsche 944. (145 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Renault Vel Satis should accelerate faster than 1981 Porsche 944. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Renault Vel Satis weights approximately 465 kg more than 1981 Porsche 944. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Porsche 944 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 Porsche 944. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Renault Vel Satis (350 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Porsche 944. (195 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Renault Vel Satis will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Porsche 944.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Porsche 944 | 2008 Renault Vel Satis | |
| Make | Porsche | Renault |
| Model | 944 | Vel Satis |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2479 cc | 2958 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 195 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 100 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.9 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2850 mm |
