2004 Caterham 7 vs. 2001 Renault Vel Satis
To start off, 2004 Caterham 7 is newer by 3 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 2,958 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Renault Vel Satis is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Caterham 7 (251 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 2001 Renault Vel Satis. (179 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 2001 Renault Vel Satis. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Renault Vel Satis weights approximately 1265 kg more than 2004 Caterham 7.
Because 2004 Caterham 7 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 2004 Caterham 7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2001 Renault Vel Satis (350 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Caterham 7. (258 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2001 Renault Vel Satis will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Caterham 7. 2001 Renault Vel Satis has automatic transmission and 2004 Caterham 7 has manual transmission. 2004 Caterham 7 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:
| 2004 Caterham 7 | 2001 Renault Vel Satis | |
| Make | Caterham | Renault |
| Model | 7 | Vel Satis |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 2958 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 251 HP | 179 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 258 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Top Speed | 241 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 470 kg | 1735 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2740 mm |
