2000 Ariel Atom vs. 2004 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2004 Opel Vectra is newer by 4 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 2,958 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Opel Vectra (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 2000 Ariel Atom. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 2000 Ariel Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Opel Vectra weights approximately 1178 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, 2004 Opel Vectra, 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, 2004 Opel Vectra (370 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 221 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Ariel Atom. (149 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Ariel Atom. 2004 Opel Vectra 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. 2004 Opel Vectra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Ariel Atom | 2004 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Ariel | Opel |
| Model | Atom | Vectra |
| Year Released | 2000 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 2958 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 149 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 1638 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2840 mm |
