2001 Renault Vel Satis vs. 1980 Buick Century
To start off, 2001 Renault Vel Satis is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Buick Century. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Buick Century would be higher. At 3,214 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Buick Century is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Renault Vel Satis (210 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 1980 Buick Century. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Renault Vel Satis should accelerate faster than 1980 Buick Century. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Renault Vel Satis weights approximately 290 kg more than 1980 Buick Century. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 Buick Century 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 1980 Buick Century. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2001 Renault Vel Satis (393 Nm) has 175 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Buick Century. (218 Nm). This means 2001 Renault Vel Satis will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Buick Century.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Renault Vel Satis | 1980 Buick Century | |
| Make | Renault | Buick |
| Model | Vel Satis | Century |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3000 cc | 3214 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 393 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1720 kg | 1430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1580 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2760 mm |
