2000 Ariel Atom vs. 1998 Ford Focus
To start off, 2000 Ariel Atom is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Ford Focus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ford Focus would be higher. At 1,797 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ford Focus (134 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 2000 Ariel Atom. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 2000 Ariel Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ford Focus weights approximately 784 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, 1998 Ford Focus, 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, 1998 Ford Focus (170 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Ariel Atom. (149 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Ariel Atom.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Ariel Atom | 1998 Ford Focus | |
| Make | Ariel | Ford |
| Model | Atom | Focus |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 1797 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 149 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 1244 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2620 mm |
