1986 BMW 325 vs. 2001 Renault Vel Satis
To start off, 2001 Renault Vel Satis is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 BMW 325. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 BMW 325 would be higher. At 2,958 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Renault Vel Satis is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Renault Vel Satis (179 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1986 BMW 325. (126 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Renault Vel Satis should accelerate faster than 1986 BMW 325. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Renault Vel Satis weights approximately 575 kg more than 1986 BMW 325. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 BMW 325 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 1986 BMW 325. 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 (350 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 BMW 325. (230 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2001 Renault Vel Satis will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 BMW 325. 2001 Renault Vel Satis has automatic transmission and 1986 BMW 325 has manual transmission. 1986 BMW 325 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:
| 1986 BMW 325 | 2001 Renault Vel Satis | |
| Make | BMW | Renault |
| Model | 325 | Vel Satis |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2693 cc | 2958 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 126 HP | 179 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.6 seconds | 10.5 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 | 1160 kg | 1735 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
