2000 Ariel Atom vs. 2003 Mazda 3
To start off, 2003 Mazda 3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2000 Ariel Atom. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2000 Ariel Atom would be higher. At 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda 3 (143 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 2000 Ariel Atom. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2000 Ariel Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda 3 weights approximately 850 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, 2003 Mazda 3, 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, 2003 Mazda 3 (187 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Ariel Atom. (149 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Ariel Atom.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Ariel Atom | 2003 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ariel | Mazda |
| Model | Atom | 3 |
| Year Released | 2000 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 143 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 149 Nm | 187 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 1310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2730 mm |
