2000 Ariel Atom vs. 2012 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2012 Nissan Altima 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 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Nissan Altima (175 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 2000 Ariel Atom. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 2000 Ariel Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Nissan Altima weights approximately 938 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, 2012 Nissan Altima, 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 Nissan Altima (244 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Ariel Atom. (149 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Ariel Atom.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Ariel Atom | 2012 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Ariel | Nissan |
| Model | Atom | Altima |
| Year Released | 2000 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 149 Nm | 244 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 1398 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4595 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1796 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2675 mm |
