2001 Ariel Atom vs. 1966 DKW F 102
To start off, 2001 Ariel Atom is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 DKW F 102. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 DKW F 102 would be higher. At 1,589 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Ariel Atom is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Ariel Atom (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1966 DKW F 102. (59 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Ariel Atom should accelerate faster than 1966 DKW F 102. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1966 DKW F 102 weights approximately 450 kg more than 2001 Ariel Atom.
Because 2001 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 2001 Ariel Atom. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1966 DKW F 102, 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, 2001 Ariel Atom (148 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 DKW F 102. (103 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 2001 Ariel Atom will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 DKW F 102.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Ariel Atom | 1966 DKW F 102 | |
| Make | Ariel | DKW |
| Model | Atom | F 102 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1966 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 1175 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 103 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2250 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 7.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 910 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2480 mm |
