2000 Ariel Atom vs. 1997 Buick Century
To start off, 2000 Ariel Atom is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Buick Century. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Buick Century would be higher. At 3,135 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Buick Century is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Buick Century (165 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 2000 Ariel Atom. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Buick Century should accelerate faster than 2000 Ariel Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Buick Century weights approximately 1060 kg more than 2000 Ariel Atom. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1997 Buick Century, 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, 1997 Buick Century (251 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Ariel Atom. (149 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Buick Century will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Ariel Atom. 1997 Buick Century 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. 1997 Buick Century will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Ariel Atom | 1997 Buick Century | |
| Make | Ariel | Buick |
| Model | Atom | Century |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 3135 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 149 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 1520 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2780 mm |
