1996 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2006 Renault Vel Satis
To start off, 2006 Renault Vel Satis is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Chevrolet Malibu would be higher. At 2,957 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Renault Vel Satis is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Renault Vel Satis (175 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Renault Vel Satis should accelerate faster than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Renault Vel Satis weights approximately 425 kg more than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2006 Renault Vel Satis (350 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2006 Renault Vel Satis will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Chevrolet Malibu | 2006 Renault Vel Satis | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Renault |
| Model | Malibu | Vel Satis |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2392 cc | 2957 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2850 mm |
