2000 Ariel Atom vs. 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton 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 4,172 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton (330 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 221 more horse power than 2000 Ariel Atom. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 2000 Ariel Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 771 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 Phaeton 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 Phaeton 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 Phaeton (430 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 281 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Ariel Atom. (149 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Ariel Atom.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Ariel Atom | 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | Ariel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Atom | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 2000 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 4172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 330 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 149 Nm | 430 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 1231 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 5180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 3010 mm |
