1991 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2005 Renault Vel Satis
To start off, 2005 Renault Vel Satis is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,598 cc (6 cylinders), 1991 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Renault Vel Satis (168 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1991 Mercedes-Benz S. (164 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Renault Vel Satis should accelerate faster than 1991 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Renault Vel Satis weights approximately 120 kg more than 1991 Mercedes-Benz S. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1991 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1991 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Renault Vel Satis (270 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Mercedes-Benz S. (228 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2005 Renault Vel Satis will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Mercedes-Benz S | 2005 Renault Vel Satis | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | S | Vel Satis |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2598 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 164 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 228 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.9 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.3 mm | 93 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1520 kg | 1640 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2630 mm |
