2001 Ariel Atom vs. 2006 Citroen Xsara
To start off, 2006 Citroen Xsara is newer by 5 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 1,749 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Citroen Xsara (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2001 Ariel Atom. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 2001 Ariel Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 860 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, 2006 Citroen Xsara, 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, 2006 Citroen Xsara (160 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Ariel Atom. (148 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Ariel Atom.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Ariel Atom | 2006 Citroen Xsara | |
| Make | Ariel | Citroen |
| Model | Atom | Xsara |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 1749 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1640 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2770 mm |
