1988 BMW M3 vs. 2007 Renault Vel Satis
To start off, 2007 Renault Vel Satis is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,956 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Renault Vel Satis is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW M3 (221 HP @ 6750 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 2007 Renault Vel Satis. (175 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2007 Renault Vel Satis. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Renault Vel Satis weights approximately 610 kg more than 1988 BMW M3.
Because 1988 BMW M3 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 1988 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2007 Renault Vel Satis (350 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW M3. (245 Nm @ 4750 RPM). This means 2007 Renault Vel Satis will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW M3. 2007 Renault Vel Satis has automatic transmission and 1988 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 1988 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Renault Vel Satis will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW M3 | 2007 Renault Vel Satis | |
| Make | BMW | Renault |
| Model | M3 | Vel Satis |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2303 cc | 2956 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 221 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.4 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 237 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |
