2001 Renault Vel Satis vs. 2009 Alpina B3
To start off, 2009 Alpina B3 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Renault Vel Satis. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Renault Vel Satis would be higher. At 3,346 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Alpina B3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Alpina B3 (301 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 2001 Renault Vel Satis. (210 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Alpina B3 should accelerate faster than 2001 Renault Vel Satis. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Renault Vel Satis weights approximately 268 kg more than 2009 Alpina B3.
Because 2009 Alpina B3 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 2009 Alpina B3. 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 31 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Alpina B3. (362 Nm). This means 2001 Renault Vel Satis will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Alpina B3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Renault Vel Satis | 2009 Alpina B3 | |
| Make | Renault | Alpina |
| Model | Vel Satis | B3 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3000 cc | 3346 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 301 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 393 Nm | 362 Nm |
| Top Speed | 210 km/hour | 271 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1720 kg | 1452 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1580 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 63 L |
