2006 Renault Vel Satis vs. 1996 Volvo S40
To start off, 2006 Renault Vel Satis is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo S40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo S40 would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Renault Vel Satis is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Renault Vel Satis (239 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 150 more horse power than 1996 Volvo S40. (89 HP @ 4250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Renault Vel Satis should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Renault Vel Satis weights approximately 565 kg more than 1996 Volvo S40. 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, 2006 Renault Vel Satis (330 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 153 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo S40. (177 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 2006 Renault Vel Satis will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo S40. 2006 Renault Vel Satis has automatic transmission and 1996 Volvo S40 has manual transmission. 1996 Volvo S40 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Renault Vel Satis will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Renault Vel Satis | 1996 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Renault | Volvo |
| Model | Vel Satis | S40 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 1870 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 239 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 177 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1795 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1580 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2560 mm |
