2003 Caterham 7 vs. 2005 Renault Vel Satis
To start off, 2005 Renault Vel Satis is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Caterham 7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Caterham 7 would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Renault Vel Satis is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Renault Vel Satis (237 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 2003 Caterham 7. (160 HP @ 7500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Renault Vel Satis should accelerate faster than 2003 Caterham 7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Renault Vel Satis weights approximately 1222 kg more than 2003 Caterham 7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Caterham 7 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 Caterham 7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Renault Vel Satis (330 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 154 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Caterham 7. (176 Nm @ 5750 RPM). This means 2005 Renault Vel Satis will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Caterham 7. 2005 Renault Vel Satis has automatic transmission and 2003 Caterham 7 has manual transmission. 2003 Caterham 7 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Renault Vel Satis will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Caterham 7 | 2005 Renault Vel Satis | |
Make | Caterham | Renault |
Model | 7 | Vel Satis |
Year Released | 2003 | 2005 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1794 cc | 3498 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 160 HP | 237 HP |
Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 176 Nm | 330 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 95.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 89.3 mm | 81.4 mm |
Top Speed | 209 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 500 kg | 1722 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4870 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1870 mm |
Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1580 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2630 mm |