2000 Ariel Atom vs. 2005 Renault Vel Satis
To start off, 2005 Renault Vel Satis is newer by 5 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 3,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Renault Vel Satis is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Renault Vel Satis (238 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 129 more horse power than 2000 Ariel Atom. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Renault Vel Satis should accelerate faster than 2000 Ariel Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Renault Vel Satis weights approximately 1260 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, 2005 Renault Vel Satis, 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, 2005 Renault Vel Satis (330 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 181 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Ariel Atom. (149 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Renault Vel Satis will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Ariel Atom. 2005 Renault Vel Satis 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. 2005 Renault Vel Satis will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Ariel Atom | 2005 Renault Vel Satis | |
| Make | Ariel | Renault |
| Model | Atom | Vel Satis |
| Year Released | 2000 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 3496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 149 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 1720 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2610 mm |
