1996 Caterham 7 vs. 2005 Renault Vel Satis
To start off, 2005 Renault Vel Satis is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Caterham 7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Caterham 7 would be higher. At 2,186 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Renault Vel Satis is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Renault Vel Satis (141 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1996 Caterham 7. (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Renault Vel Satis should accelerate faster than 1996 Caterham 7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Renault Vel Satis weights approximately 1227 kg more than 1996 Caterham 7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Caterham 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 1996 Caterham 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 164 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Caterham 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 1996 Caterham 7. 2005 Renault Vel Satis has automatic transmission and 1996 Caterham 7 has manual transmission. 1996 Caterham 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:
| 1996 Caterham 7 | 2005 Renault Vel Satis | |
| Make | Caterham | Renault |
| Model | 7 | Vel Satis |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2186 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 156 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 203 km/hour | 193 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 478 kg | 1705 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2750 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 36 L | 80 L |
