1997 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2006 Renault Vel Satis
To start off, 2006 Renault Vel Satis is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 2,188 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Renault Vel Satis is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Renault Vel Satis (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz C. (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Renault Vel Satis should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Renault Vel Satis weights approximately 325 kg more than 1997 Mercedes-Benz C. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Mercedes-Benz C 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 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Renault Vel Satis (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 149 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz C. (171 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2006 Renault Vel Satis will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz C | 2006 Renault Vel Satis | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | C | Vel Satis |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1799 cc | 2188 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 171 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.3 mm | 87.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.7 mm | 92 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1735 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 80 L |
