1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2005 Renault Vel Satis
To start off, 2005 Renault Vel Satis is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,946 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Renault Vel Satis is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (204 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 2005 Renault Vel Satis. (175 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2005 Renault Vel Satis.
Because 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 2005 Renault Vel Satis (350 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (270 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Renault Vel Satis will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2005 Renault Vel Satis | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | SL | Vel Satis |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2799 cc | 2946 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 204 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.5 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 228 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.8 seconds | 10.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1810 kg | 1810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2880 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 80 L |
