2001 Ariel Atom vs. 1999 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2001 Ariel Atom is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Opel Vectra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Opel Vectra would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Opel Vectra (134 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 2001 Ariel Atom. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 2001 Ariel Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Opel Vectra weights approximately 1010 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, 1999 Opel Vectra, 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, 1999 Opel Vectra (187 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Ariel Atom. (148 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Ariel Atom.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Ariel Atom | 1999 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Ariel | Opel |
| Model | Atom | Vectra |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 187 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2650 mm |
