1996 Mazda MPV 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 Mazda MPV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mazda MPV would be higher. At 2,498 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Mazda MPV is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Renault Vel Satis (163 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1996 Mazda MPV. (114 HP @ 3400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Renault Vel Satis should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda MPV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mazda MPV weights approximately 130 kg more than 2001 Renault Vel Satis.
Because 1996 Mazda MPV 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 Mazda MPV. 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 Mazda MPV (277 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Renault Vel Satis. (250 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1996 Mazda MPV will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Renault Vel Satis. 2001 Renault Vel Satis has automatic transmission and 1996 Mazda MPV has manual transmission. 1996 Mazda MPV 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 Mazda MPV | 2001 Renault Vel Satis | |
| Make | Mazda | Renault |
| Model | MPV | Vel Satis |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2498 cc | 1996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 277 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1790 kg | 1660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2850 mm |
