1996 BMW Z3 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 Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 2,958 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Renault Vel Satis is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Renault Vel Satis (179 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1996 BMW Z3. (141 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Renault Vel Satis should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Renault Vel Satis weights approximately 105 kg more than 1996 BMW Z3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW Z3 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 Z3. 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, 2001 Renault Vel Satis (350 Nm) has 170 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW Z3. (180 Nm). This means 2001 Renault Vel Satis will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW Z3. 2001 Renault Vel Satis has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW Z3 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW Z3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Renault Vel Satis will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 2001 Renault Vel Satis | |
| Make | BMW | Renault |
| Model | Z3 | Vel Satis |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1897 cc | 2958 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 179 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Top Speed | 186 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 | 1630 kg | 1735 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 80 L |
