2000 Ariel Atom vs. 1982 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2000 Ariel Atom is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 1982 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 109 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 425 kg more than 2000 Ariel Atom.
Because 2000 Ariel 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 2000 Ariel Atom. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1982 Volkswagen Golf, 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 Volkswagen Golf (153 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Ariel Atom. (149 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1982 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Ariel Atom.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Ariel Atom | 1982 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ariel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Atom | Golf |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1982 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 149 Nm | 153 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 885 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2410 mm |
