1997 BMW 850 vs. 2008 Renault Vel Satis

To start off, 2008 Renault Vel Satis is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW 850 would be higher. At 5,379 cc (12 cylinders), 1997 BMW 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW 850 (329 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 154 more horse power than 2008 Renault Vel Satis. (175 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW 850 should accelerate faster than 2008 Renault Vel Satis. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW 850 weights approximately 135 kg more than 2008 Renault Vel Satis. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1997 BMW 850 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 1997 BMW 850. 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, 1997 BMW 850 (490 Nm) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Renault Vel Satis. (350 Nm). This means 1997 BMW 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Renault Vel Satis.

Compare all specifications:

1997 BMW 850 2008 Renault Vel Satis
Make BMW Renault
Model 850 Vel Satis
Year Released 1997 2008
Body Type Coupe Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 5379 cc 2958 cc
Engine Cylinders 12 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type V V
Horse Power 329 HP 175 HP
Engine RPM 4800 RPM 4400 RPM
Torque 490 Nm 350 Nm
Engine Bore Size 85.1 mm 87.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 79 mm 82 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.0:1 18.5:1
Top Speed 249 km/hour 210 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Automatic
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1945 kg 1810 kg
Vehicle Length 4790 mm 4870 mm
Vehicle Width 1860 mm 1870 mm
Vehicle Height 1350 mm 1580 mm
Wheelbase Size 2690 mm 2850 mm