2009 Mazda 3 vs. 2008 Renault Vel Satis
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 1 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 2,258 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (156 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 2008 Renault Vel Satis. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Renault Vel Satis. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Renault Vel Satis weights approximately 735 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, 2008 Renault Vel Satis (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 117 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (203 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Renault Vel Satis will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 2008 Renault Vel Satis | |
| Make | Mazda | Renault |
| Model | 3 | Vel Satis |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2258 cc | 2188 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 156 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1125 kg | 1860 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.4 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
