1996 BMW M3 vs. 2001 Renault Vel Satis
To start off, 2001 Renault Vel Satis is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,169 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW M3 (328 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 165 more horse power than 2001 Renault Vel Satis. (163 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2001 Renault Vel Satis. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Renault Vel Satis weights approximately 8 kg more than 1996 BMW M3.
Because 1996 BMW M3 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 1996 BMW M3. 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, 1996 BMW M3 (350 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Renault Vel Satis. (250 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1996 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Renault Vel Satis.
Compare all specifications:
1996 BMW M3 | 2001 Renault Vel Satis | |
Make | BMW | Renault |
Model | M3 | Vel Satis |
Year Released | 1996 | 2001 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3169 cc | 1996 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 328 HP | 163 HP |
Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 350 Nm | 250 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 86.4 mm | 82.7 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 93 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 9.5:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1632 kg | 1640 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4870 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1870 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1580 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2870 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 80 L |