2000 Ariel Atom vs. 1996 Proton 300
To start off, 2000 Ariel Atom is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Proton 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Proton 300 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 34 more horse power than 1996 Proton 300. (75 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 Ariel Atom should accelerate faster than 1996 Proton 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Proton 300 weights approximately 575 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, 1996 Proton 300, 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 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Proton 300. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2000 Ariel Atom will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Proton 300.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Ariel Atom | 1996 Proton 300 | |
| Make | Ariel | Proton |
| Model | Atom | 300 |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 1299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 75 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 149 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 1035 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2450 mm |
