2000 Ariel Atom vs. 1989 Holden Nova
To start off, 2000 Ariel Atom is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Holden Nova. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Holden Nova would be higher. At 1,589 cc (4 cylinders), 2000 Ariel Atom is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Ariel Atom (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1989 Holden Nova. (90 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 Ariel Atom should accelerate faster than 1989 Holden Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Holden Nova weights approximately 560 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, 1989 Holden Nova, 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, 2000 Ariel Atom (149 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Holden Nova. (135 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2000 Ariel Atom will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Holden Nova. 1989 Holden Nova has automatic transmission and 2000 Ariel Atom has manual transmission. 2000 Ariel Atom will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1989 Holden Nova will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Ariel Atom | 1989 Holden Nova | |
| Make | Ariel | Holden |
| Model | Atom | Nova |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 1587 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 149 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2440 mm |
