2003 Mazda Roadster vs. 2004 Renault Vel Satis
To start off, 2004 Renault Vel Satis is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda Roadster. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda Roadster would be higher. At 2,188 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Renault Vel Satis is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 148 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Renault Vel Satis weights approximately 655 kg more than 2003 Mazda Roadster.
Because 2003 Mazda Roadster 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 Mazda Roadster. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Renault Vel Satis (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 153 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda Roadster. (167 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2004 Renault Vel Satis will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda Roadster.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda Roadster | 2004 Renault Vel Satis | |
| Make | Mazda | Renault |
| Model | Roadster | Vel Satis |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1838 cc | 2188 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1735 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 80 L |
