1989 Renault 21 vs. 2004 Renault Vel Satis
To start off, 2004 Renault Vel Satis is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Renault 21. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Renault 21 would be higher. At 2,188 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Renault Vel Satis is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Renault Vel Satis (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1989 Renault 21. (92 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Renault Vel Satis should accelerate faster than 1989 Renault 21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Renault Vel Satis weights approximately 649 kg more than 1989 Renault 21. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2004 Renault Vel Satis (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 185 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Renault 21. (135 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Renault Vel Satis will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Renault 21. 2004 Renault Vel Satis has automatic transmission and 1989 Renault 21 has manual transmission. 1989 Renault 21 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Renault Vel Satis will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Renault 21 | 2004 Renault Vel Satis | |
| Make | Renault | Renault |
| Model | 21 | Vel Satis |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1721 cc | 2188 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 92 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.5 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 179 km/hour | 193 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1086 kg | 1735 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2700 mm |
