2001 Ariel Atom vs. 2002 Smart ForFour
To start off, 2002 Smart ForFour is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Ariel Atom. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Ariel Atom 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 15 more horse power than 2002 Smart ForFour. (94 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Ariel Atom should accelerate faster than 2002 Smart ForFour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Smart ForFour weights approximately 510 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, 2002 Smart ForFour, 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 22 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Smart ForFour. (126 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2001 Ariel Atom will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Smart ForFour.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Ariel Atom | 2002 Smart ForFour | |
| Make | Ariel | Smart |
| Model | Atom | ForFour |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 1332 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 3760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2510 mm |
