1992 Caterham Super 7 vs. 2005 Renault Vel Satis
To start off, 2005 Renault Vel Satis is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 Caterham Super 7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 Caterham Super 7 would be higher. At 2,186 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Renault Vel Satis is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 Caterham Super 7 (251 HP @ 7750 RPM) has 110 more horse power than 2005 Renault Vel Satis. (141 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1992 Caterham Super 7 should accelerate faster than 2005 Renault Vel Satis. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Renault Vel Satis weights approximately 1165 kg more than 1992 Caterham Super 7.
Because 1992 Caterham Super 7 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 1992 Caterham Super 7. 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 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 Caterham Super 7. (250 Nm @ 6250 RPM). This means 2005 Renault Vel Satis will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 Caterham Super 7. 2005 Renault Vel Satis has automatic transmission and 1992 Caterham Super 7 has manual transmission. 1992 Caterham Super 7 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Renault Vel Satis will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 Caterham Super 7 | 2005 Renault Vel Satis | |
| Make | Caterham | Renault |
| Model | Super 7 | Vel Satis |
| Year Released | 1992 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2186 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 251 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 6250 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 235 km/hour | 193 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 540 kg | 1705 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3390 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1130 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2750 mm |
