1955 Fairthorpe Atom vs. 1972 Volkswagen SP2
To start off, 1972 Volkswagen SP2 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Fairthorpe Atom. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Fairthorpe Atom would be higher. At 1,677 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 Volkswagen SP2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Volkswagen SP2 (74 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1955 Fairthorpe Atom. (12 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Volkswagen SP2 should accelerate faster than 1955 Fairthorpe Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Volkswagen SP2 weights approximately 474 kg more than 1955 Fairthorpe Atom. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 1972 Volkswagen SP2 (130 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Fairthorpe Atom. (20 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 1972 Volkswagen SP2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Fairthorpe Atom.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Fairthorpe Atom | 1972 Volkswagen SP2 | |
| Make | Fairthorpe | Volkswagen |
| Model | Atom | SP2 |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 248 cc | 1677 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 1 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | single | in-line |
| Horse Power | 12 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 20 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 63 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 426 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1530 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1160 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2410 mm |
