2002 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 2004 Ariel Atom
To start off, 2004 Ariel Atom is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Alfa Romeo Spider. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Alfa Romeo Spider would be higher. At 1,747 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Alfa Romeo Spider is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Alfa Romeo Spider (139 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 2004 Ariel Atom. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 2004 Ariel Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 890 kg more than 2004 Ariel Atom. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 Ariel Atom. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Alfa Romeo Spider, 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, 2002 Alfa Romeo Spider (163 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ariel Atom. (148 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ariel Atom.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Alfa Romeo Spider | 2004 Ariel Atom | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Ariel |
| Model | Spider | Atom |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 1587 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 163 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 1 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3420 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2350 mm |
