2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2004 Renault Vel Satis
To start off, 2004 Renault Vel Satis is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 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 66 more horse power than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (172 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Renault Vel Satis should accelerate faster than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Renault Vel Satis weights approximately 475 kg more than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 (385 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Renault Vel Satis. (330 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Renault Vel Satis. 2004 Renault Vel Satis has automatic transmission and 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 has manual transmission. 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 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:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 | 2004 Renault Vel Satis | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Renault |
| Model | 156 | Vel Satis |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 172 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 385 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 211 km/hour | 230 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.3 seconds | 8.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1860 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2880 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.6 L/100km | 11.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 80 L |
