2008 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2005 Renault Vel Satis
To start off, 2008 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Renault Vel Satis. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Renault Vel Satis would be higher. At 3,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Renault Vel Satis is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Renault Vel Satis (238 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 130 more horse power than 2008 Mazda RX-8. (108 HP @ 8200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Renault Vel Satis should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2008 Mazda RX-8 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 2008 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Renault Vel Satis (330 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 190 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda RX-8. (140 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2005 Renault Vel Satis will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda RX-8 | 2005 Renault Vel Satis | |
| Make | Mazda | Renault |
| Model | RX-8 | Vel Satis |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 3496 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | V |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 170 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 110 L/100km | 11.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 80 L |
