2003 Ford Explorer vs. 2001 Renault Vel Satis
To start off, 2003 Ford Explorer is newer by 2 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 4,014 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Explorer (210 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 2001 Renault Vel Satis. (179 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2001 Renault Vel Satis. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Explorer weights approximately 204 kg more than 2001 Renault Vel Satis. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2001 Renault Vel Satis. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Ford Explorer will offer significantly more control. 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 (350 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Explorer. (335 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2001 Renault Vel Satis will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Explorer. 2001 Renault Vel Satis has automatic transmission and 2003 Ford Explorer has manual transmission. 2003 Ford Explorer will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Renault Vel Satis will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Explorer | 2001 Renault Vel Satis | |
| Make | Ford | Renault |
| Model | Explorer | Vel Satis |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2001 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4014 cc | 2958 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 179 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 335 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 100.4 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.4 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1939 kg | 1735 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5240 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3490 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 11.8 L/100km | 6.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 15.7 L/100km | 12 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.8 L/100km | 8.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 80 L |
