2003 Ford Explorer 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 Ford Explorer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Ford Explorer would be higher. At 3,994 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Explorer (158 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 2005 Renault Vel Satis. (141 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2005 Renault Vel Satis. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Explorer weights approximately 245 kg more than 2005 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 2005 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, 2005 Renault Vel Satis (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Explorer. (305 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2005 Renault Vel Satis will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Explorer. 2005 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. 2005 Renault Vel Satis will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Explorer | 2005 Renault Vel Satis | |
| Make | Ford | Renault |
| Model | Explorer | Vel Satis |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2005 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3994 cc | 2186 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1950 kg | 1705 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2750 mm |
