2001 Ariel Atom vs. 1997 Mazda 626
To start off, 2001 Ariel Atom is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 1,840 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Mazda 626 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Ariel Atom (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1997 Mazda 626. (89 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Ariel Atom should accelerate faster than 1997 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mazda 626 weights approximately 730 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, 1997 Mazda 626, 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 3 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda 626. (145 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2001 Ariel Atom will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Ariel Atom | 1997 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | Ariel | Mazda |
| Model | Atom | 626 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2620 mm |
