2001 Ariel Atom vs. 1996 Suzuki Samurai
To start off, 2001 Ariel Atom is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Suzuki Samurai. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Suzuki Samurai 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 40 more horse power than 1996 Suzuki Samurai. (69 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Ariel Atom should accelerate faster than 1996 Suzuki Samurai. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Suzuki Samurai weights approximately 470 kg more than 2001 Ariel Atom.
Because 1996 Suzuki Samurai is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2001 Ariel Atom. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Suzuki Samurai will offer significantly more control. 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 1996 Suzuki Samurai. (103 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2001 Ariel Atom will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Suzuki Samurai.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Ariel Atom | 1996 Suzuki Samurai | |
| Make | Ariel | Suzuki |
| Model | Atom | Samurai |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Roadster | SUV |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 1296 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 69 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 103 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 3450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2490 mm |
