2000 Ariel Atom vs. 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer
To start off, 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer is newer by 12 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), 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Ariel Atom (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 Ariel Atom should accelerate faster than 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer weights approximately 1510 kg more than 2000 Ariel Atom.
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, 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer, 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, 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer (310 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 161 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Ariel Atom. (149 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Ariel Atom.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Ariel Atom | 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer | |
| Make | Ariel | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Atom | Lancer |
| Year Released | 2000 | 2012 |
| 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 | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 149 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 1970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4582 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1763 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1516 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2634 mm |
