2001 Ariel Atom vs. 2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse
To start off, 2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse is newer by 7 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 2,378 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse (162 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 2001 Ariel Atom. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse should accelerate faster than 2001 Ariel Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse 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, 2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse, 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, 2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Ariel Atom. (148 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Ariel Atom.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Ariel Atom | 2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse | |
| Make | Ariel | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Atom | Eclipse |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 2378 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 162 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2580 mm |
