2009 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2008 Renault Vel Satis
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 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 2,188 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Renault Vel Satis is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 2008 Renault Vel Satis. (148 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 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 315 kg more than 2009 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2009 Mazda RX-8 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 2009 Mazda RX-8. 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, 2008 Renault Vel Satis (321 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 101 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda RX-8. (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2008 Renault Vel Satis will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda RX-8. 2008 Renault Vel Satis has automatic transmission and 2009 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2009 Mazda RX-8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Renault Vel Satis will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda RX-8 | 2008 Renault Vel Satis | |
| Make | Mazda | Renault |
| Model | RX-8 | Vel Satis |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 2188 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 321 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.1 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 92 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.2 seconds | 12.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1420 kg | 1735 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.6 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 80 L |
