2008 Renault Vel Satis vs. 2011 Cadillac STS
To start off, 2011 Cadillac STS is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Renault Vel Satis. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Renault Vel Satis would be higher. At 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Cadillac STS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Cadillac STS (302 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 154 more horse power than 2008 Renault Vel Satis. (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Cadillac STS should accelerate faster than 2008 Renault Vel Satis. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Cadillac STS weights approximately 67 kg more than 2008 Renault Vel Satis. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 Cadillac STS 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 2011 Cadillac STS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2011 Cadillac STS (368 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Renault Vel Satis. (321 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2011 Cadillac STS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Renault Vel Satis.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Renault Vel Satis | 2011 Cadillac STS | |
| Make | Renault | Cadillac |
| Model | Vel Satis | STS |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2188 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 321 Nm | 368 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1735 kg | 1802 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4996 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1844 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1580 mm | 1463 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2957 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 64 L |
