1955 Fairthorpe Atom vs. 1982 Talbot Samba
To start off, 1982 Talbot Samba is newer by 27 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 1,219 cc (4 cylinders), 1982 Talbot Samba is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1982 Talbot Samba (90 HP) has 55 more horse power than 1955 Fairthorpe Atom. (35 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1982 Talbot Samba should accelerate faster than 1955 Fairthorpe Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Talbot Samba weights approximately 355 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.
Because 1955 Fairthorpe Atom 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 1955 Fairthorpe Atom. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1982 Talbot Samba, 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, 1982 Talbot Samba (102 Nm @ 5400 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Fairthorpe Atom. (49 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1982 Talbot Samba will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Fairthorpe Atom.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Fairthorpe Atom | 1982 Talbot Samba | |
| Make | Fairthorpe | Talbot |
| Model | Atom | Samba |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 646 cc | 1219 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 35 HP | 90 HP |
| Torque | 49 Nm | 102 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 6.5:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 431 kg | 786 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 3520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1530 mm | 1530 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2350 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 20 L | 40 L |
