2004 Renault Vel Satis vs. 1996 Toyota MR2
To start off, 2004 Renault Vel Satis is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Toyota MR2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Toyota MR2 would be higher. At 2,946 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Renault Vel Satis is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Renault Vel Satis (176 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 1996 Toyota MR2. (74 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Renault Vel Satis should accelerate faster than 1996 Toyota MR2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Renault Vel Satis weights approximately 195 kg more than 1996 Toyota MR2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Toyota MR2 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 1996 Toyota MR2. 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 (350 Nm) has 219 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Toyota MR2. (131 Nm). This means 2004 Renault Vel Satis will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Toyota MR2. 2004 Renault Vel Satis has automatic transmission and 1996 Toyota MR2 has manual transmission. 1996 Toyota MR2 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Renault Vel Satis will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Renault Vel Satis | 1996 Toyota MR2 | |
| Make | Renault | Toyota |
| Model | Vel Satis | MR2 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2946 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 176 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 131 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1810 kg | 1615 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1580 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 75 L |
