1995 Caterham Super 7 vs. 2005 Renault Vel Satis
To start off, 2005 Renault Vel Satis is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Caterham Super 7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Caterham Super 7 would be higher. At 2,946 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Renault Vel Satis is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Renault Vel Satis (175 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1995 Caterham Super 7. (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Renault Vel Satis should accelerate faster than 1995 Caterham Super 7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Renault Vel Satis weights approximately 1256 kg more than 1995 Caterham Super 7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1995 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 1995 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 (350 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 194 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Caterham Super 7. (156 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2005 Renault Vel Satis will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Caterham Super 7. 2005 Renault Vel Satis has automatic transmission and 1995 Caterham Super 7 has manual transmission. 1995 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:
| 1995 Caterham Super 7 | 2005 Renault Vel Satis | |
| Make | Caterham | Renault |
| Model | Super 7 | Vel Satis |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2946 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 156 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 210 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 | 554 kg | 1810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3390 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1100 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2880 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 30 L | 80 L |
