2000 Ariel Atom vs. 2003 Volkswagen Sharan
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Sharan 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 1,786 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Volkswagen Sharan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen Sharan (148 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 2000 Ariel Atom. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Sharan should accelerate faster than 2000 Ariel Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen Sharan weights approximately 1214 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 Volkswagen Sharan, 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 Volkswagen Sharan (210 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Ariel Atom. (149 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen Sharan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Ariel Atom.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Ariel Atom | 2003 Volkswagen Sharan | |
| Make | Ariel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Atom | Sharan |
| Year Released | 2000 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 1786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 149 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 1674 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2850 mm |
