2001 Ariel Atom vs. 2003 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2003 Opel Vectra is newer by 2 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 1,794 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Vectra (123 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 2001 Ariel Atom. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 2001 Ariel Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Vectra weights approximately 930 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, 2003 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, 2003 Opel Vectra (162 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Ariel Atom. (148 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Ariel Atom. 2003 Opel Vectra has automatic transmission and 2001 Ariel Atom has manual transmission. 2001 Ariel Atom will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Opel Vectra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Ariel Atom | 2003 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Ariel | Opel |
| Model | Atom | Vectra |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 1794 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 192 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2710 mm |
