2000 Ariel Atom vs. 2004 Vector M12
To start off, 2004 Vector M12 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 5,707 cc (12 cylinders), 2004 Vector M12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Vector M12 (484 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 375 more horse power than 2000 Ariel Atom. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Vector M12 should accelerate faster than 2000 Ariel Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Vector M12 weights approximately 1170 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.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 Vector M12 (576 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 427 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Ariel Atom. (149 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Vector M12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Ariel Atom.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Ariel Atom | 2004 Vector M12 | |
| Make | Ariel | Vector |
| Model | Atom | M12 |
| Year Released | 2000 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Rear | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 5707 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 484 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 149 Nm | 576 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 1630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1140 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2750 mm |
