2001 Ariel Atom vs. 1986 Ford Escort
To start off, 2001 Ariel Atom is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Ford Escort 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 61 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (48 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Ariel Atom should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Ford Escort weights approximately 365 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, 1986 Ford Escort, 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 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (83 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2001 Ariel Atom will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Ariel Atom | 1986 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Ariel | Ford |
| Model | Atom | Escort |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 1115 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 48 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 83 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 145 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 825 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2410 mm |
