2008 Mazda 3 vs. 2007 Renault Vel Satis
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 Renault Vel Satis. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 Renault Vel Satis would be higher. At 2,956 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Renault Vel Satis is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Renault Vel Satis (175 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 2008 Mazda 3. (105 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Renault Vel Satis should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Renault Vel Satis weights approximately 550 kg more than 2008 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, 2007 Renault Vel Satis (350 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 205 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2007 Renault Vel Satis will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 3 | 2007 Renault Vel Satis | |
| Make | Mazda | Renault |
| Model | 3 | Vel Satis |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2956 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 182 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11 seconds | 10.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.2 L/100km | 8.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
