2001 Ariel Atom vs. 1988 Buick Electra
To start off, 2001 Ariel Atom is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Buick Electra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Buick Electra would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Buick Electra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Buick Electra (163 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 2001 Ariel Atom. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Buick Electra should accelerate faster than 2001 Ariel Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Buick Electra weights approximately 1115 kg more than 2001 Ariel Atom. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1988 Buick Electra, 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, 1988 Buick Electra (285 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 137 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Ariel Atom. (148 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1988 Buick Electra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Ariel Atom. 1988 Buick Electra has automatic transmission and 2001 Ariel Atom has manual transmission. 2001 Ariel Atom will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1988 Buick Electra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Ariel Atom | 1988 Buick Electra | |
| Make | Ariel | Buick |
| Model | Atom | Electra |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 3791 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 285 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 1575 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2820 mm |
