2003 Chevrolet Malibu 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 Chevrolet Malibu. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Chevrolet Malibu would be higher. At 3,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Renault Vel Satis is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Renault Vel Satis (238 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. (168 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Renault Vel Satis should accelerate faster than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Renault Vel Satis weights approximately 340 kg more than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. 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, 2005 Renault Vel Satis (330 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. (257 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Renault Vel Satis will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chevrolet Malibu | 2005 Renault Vel Satis | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Renault |
| Model | Malibu | Vel Satis |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3135 cc | 3496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 257 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.1 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1720 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2610 mm |
