2009 Mazda 3 vs. 2006 Renault Vel Satis
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Renault Vel Satis. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Renault Vel Satis would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Renault Vel Satis is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (256 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 2006 Renault Vel Satis. (239 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2006 Renault Vel Satis. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Renault Vel Satis weights approximately 310 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 (380 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Renault Vel Satis. (330 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Renault Vel Satis. 2006 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. 2006 Renault Vel Satis will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 2006 Renault Vel Satis | |
| Make | Mazda | Renault |
| Model | 3 | Vel Satis |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2261 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 256 HP | 239 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 380 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.6 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 81.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.1 seconds | 8.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 1795 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.7 L/100km | 11.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
