2003 BMW 318 vs. 2008 Renault Vel Satis
To start off, 2008 Renault Vel Satis is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW 318 would be higher. At 2,188 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Renault Vel Satis is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Renault Vel Satis (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 2003 BMW 318. (113 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Renault Vel Satis should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Renault Vel Satis weights approximately 470 kg more than 2003 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Renault Vel Satis (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 145 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW 318. (175 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2008 Renault Vel Satis will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
2003 BMW 318 | 2008 Renault Vel Satis | |
Make | BMW | Renault |
Model | 318 | Vel Satis |
Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2188 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 113 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 175 Nm | 320 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 87 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 92 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1390 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 | 2850 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 80 L |