2003 Mazda 3 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 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Renault Vel Satis (168 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 3. (160 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Renault Vel Satis should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Renault Vel Satis weights approximately 400 kg more than 2003 Mazda 3. 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 (270 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 3. (195 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2005 Renault Vel Satis will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda 3 | 2005 Renault Vel Satis | |
| Make | Mazda | Renault |
| Model | 3 | Vel Satis |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 195 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 200 km/hour | 211 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9 seconds | 9.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 1640 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.7 L/100km | 12.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.4 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
