1996 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2008 Renault Vel Satis
To start off, 2008 Renault Vel Satis is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 138 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Renault Vel Satis weights approximately 240 kg more than 1996 Ford Thunderbird.
Because 1996 Ford Thunderbird 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 Ford Thunderbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Renault Vel Satis (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Thunderbird. (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 Renault Vel Satis will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Thunderbird. 1996 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 2008 Renault Vel Satis has manual transmission. 2008 Renault Vel Satis will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Ford Thunderbird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Thunderbird | 2008 Renault Vel Satis | |
| Make | Ford | Renault |
| Model | Thunderbird | Vel Satis |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 2188 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.8 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1620 kg | 1860 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 80 L |
