2000 Ariel Atom vs. 2011 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 11 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volkswagen Golf (140 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 2000 Ariel Atom. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2000 Ariel Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 898 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, 2011 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 2011 Volkswagen Golf (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 171 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Ariel Atom. (149 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Ariel Atom.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Ariel Atom | 2011 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ariel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Atom | Golf |
| Year Released | 2000 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 149 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 1358 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4201 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1481 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2578 mm |
