2009 Mazda 3 vs. 2004 Renault Vel Satis
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Renault Vel Satis. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Renault Vel Satis would be higher. At 2,260 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (263 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 2004 Renault Vel Satis. (148 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Renault Vel Satis. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Renault Vel Satis weights approximately 406 kg more than 2009 Mazda 3.
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, 2009 Mazda 3 (381 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Renault Vel Satis. (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Renault Vel Satis. 2004 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. 2004 Renault Vel Satis will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 2004 Renault Vel Satis | |
| Make | Mazda | Renault |
| Model | 3 | Vel Satis |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2260 cc | 2188 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 263 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 381 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1329 kg | 1735 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.8 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
