2001 Ariel Atom vs. 1994 Honda Prelude
To start off, 2001 Ariel Atom is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 Honda Prelude. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 Honda Prelude would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 1994 Honda Prelude is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 Honda Prelude (131 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2001 Ariel Atom. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1994 Honda Prelude should accelerate faster than 2001 Ariel Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1994 Honda Prelude weights approximately 775 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, 1994 Honda Prelude, 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, 1994 Honda Prelude (179 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Ariel Atom. (148 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1994 Honda Prelude will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Ariel Atom.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Ariel Atom | 1994 Honda Prelude | |
| Make | Ariel | Honda |
| Model | Atom | Prelude |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1994 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 131 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 179 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 1235 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2580 mm |
