2009 Mazda 3 vs. 2001 Renault Vel Satis
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Renault Vel Satis. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Renault Vel Satis would be higher. At 2,958 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Renault Vel Satis is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Renault Vel Satis (179 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Renault Vel Satis should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Renault Vel Satis weights approximately 185 kg more than 2009 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, 2001 Renault Vel Satis (350 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 167 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2001 Renault Vel Satis will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3. 2001 Renault Vel Satis has automatic transmission and 2009 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2009 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Renault Vel Satis will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 2001 Renault Vel Satis | |
| Make | Mazda | Renault |
| Model | 3 | Vel Satis |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2958 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 179 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1735 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 7.5 L/100km | 6.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 10 L/100km | 12 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.9 L/100km | 8.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
