1996 Mazda RX-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 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1996 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mazda RX-7 (238 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 2005 Renault Vel Satis. (168 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 2005 Renault Vel Satis. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Renault Vel Satis weights approximately 350 kg more than 1996 Mazda RX-7.
Because 1996 Mazda RX-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 Mazda RX-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, 1996 Mazda RX-7 (296 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Renault Vel Satis. (280 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 1996 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Renault Vel Satis. 2005 Renault Vel Satis has automatic transmission and 1996 Mazda RX-7 has manual transmission. 1996 Mazda RX-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 Mazda RX-7 | 2005 Renault Vel Satis | |
| Make | Mazda | Renault |
| Model | RX-7 | Vel Satis |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 1870 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 296 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
