1997 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2005 Renault Vel Satis
To start off, 2005 Renault Vel Satis is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Chevrolet Malibu would be higher. At 2,392 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Renault Vel Satis (168 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Renault Vel Satis should accelerate faster than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Renault Vel Satis weights approximately 255 kg more than 1997 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, 2005 Renault Vel Satis (270 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2005 Renault Vel Satis will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. 1997 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2005 Renault Vel Satis has manual transmission. 2005 Renault Vel Satis will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Malibu | 2005 Renault Vel Satis | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Renault |
| Model | Malibu | Vel Satis |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2392 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1640 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2630 mm |
