2000 Ariel Atom vs. 1999 Nissan Maxima
To start off, 2000 Ariel Atom is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Nissan Maxima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Nissan Maxima would be higher. At 1,994 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Nissan Maxima (138 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 2000 Ariel Atom. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 2000 Ariel Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 885 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, 1999 Nissan Maxima, 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, 1999 Nissan Maxima (177 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Ariel Atom. (149 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Ariel Atom.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Ariel Atom | 1999 Nissan Maxima | |
| Make | Ariel | Nissan |
| Model | Atom | Maxima |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 1994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 149 Nm | 177 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 1345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2710 mm |
