2001 Ariel Atom vs. 2009 Pontiac G5
To start off, 2009 Pontiac G5 is newer by 8 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 2,189 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Pontiac G5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Pontiac G5 (155 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 2001 Ariel Atom. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Pontiac G5 should accelerate faster than 2001 Ariel Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Pontiac G5 weights approximately 869 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, 2009 Pontiac G5, 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, 2009 Pontiac G5 (203 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Ariel Atom. (148 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Pontiac G5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Ariel Atom.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Ariel Atom | 2009 Pontiac G5 | |
| Make | Ariel | Pontiac |
| Model | Atom | G5 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 2189 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 155 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 1329 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2640 mm |
