2000 BMW 318 vs. 2004 Renault Vel Satis
To start off, 2004 Renault Vel Satis is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2000 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2000 BMW 318 would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Renault Vel Satis is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Renault Vel Satis (238 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 122 more horse power than 2000 BMW 318. (116 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Renault Vel Satis should accelerate faster than 2000 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Renault Vel Satis weights approximately 420 kg more than 2000 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2000 BMW 318 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 2000 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Renault Vel Satis (330 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 149 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 BMW 318. (181 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2004 Renault Vel Satis will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 BMW 318. 2004 Renault Vel Satis has automatic transmission and 2000 BMW 318 has manual transmission. 2000 BMW 318 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Renault Vel Satis will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 BMW 318 | 2004 Renault Vel Satis | |
| Make | BMW | Renault |
| Model | 318 | Vel Satis |
| Year Released | 2000 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 181 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1440 kg | 1860 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2880 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 80 L |
