2001 Ariel Atom vs. 2008 Toyota Highlander
To start off, 2008 Toyota Highlander 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 3,311 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Toyota Highlander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Toyota Highlander (209 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 2001 Ariel Atom. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Toyota Highlander should accelerate faster than 2001 Ariel Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Toyota Highlander weights approximately 870 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 Toyota Highlander, 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 Toyota Highlander (287 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 139 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Ariel Atom. (148 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Toyota Highlander will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Ariel Atom. 2008 Toyota Highlander 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. 2008 Toyota Highlander will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Ariel Atom | 2008 Toyota Highlander | |
| Make | Ariel | Toyota |
| Model | Atom | Highlander |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Roadster | SUV |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 3311 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 209 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 287 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1920 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1770 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2800 mm |
