1989 Mazda 323 vs. 2001 Renault Vel Satis
To start off, 2001 Renault Vel Satis is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Renault Vel Satis is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Renault Vel Satis (163 HP) has 89 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Renault Vel Satis should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Renault Vel Satis weights approximately 655 kg more than 1989 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 Mazda 323 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 1989 Mazda 323. 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 (250 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 146 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (104 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2001 Renault Vel Satis will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mazda 323 | 2001 Renault Vel Satis | |
| Make | Mazda | Renault |
| Model | 323 | Vel Satis |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 1996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 163 HP |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 71 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.3 seconds | 9.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 985 kg | 1640 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2870 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 80 L |
