2000 Ariel Atom vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 8 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 3,189 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (247 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 138 more horse power than 2000 Ariel Atom. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2000 Ariel Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 1134 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 2008 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2000 Ariel Atom. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 171 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Ariel Atom. (149 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Ariel Atom. 2008 Volkswagen Golf 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. 2008 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Ariel Atom | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ariel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Atom | Golf |
| Year Released | 2000 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 3189 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 149 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 1594 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2580 mm |
