2002 Ariel Atom vs. 1976 NSU Ro 80
To start off, 2002 Ariel Atom is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 NSU Ro 80. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 NSU Ro 80 would be higher. At 2,390 cc, 1976 NSU Ro 80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 NSU Ro 80 (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2002 Ariel Atom. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1976 NSU Ro 80 should accelerate faster than 2002 Ariel Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 NSU Ro 80 weights approximately 750 kg more than 2002 Ariel Atom. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 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 2002 Ariel Atom. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1976 NSU Ro 80, 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, 1976 NSU Ro 80 (162 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Ariel Atom. (148 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1976 NSU Ro 80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Ariel Atom. 1976 NSU Ro 80 has automatic transmission and 2002 Ariel Atom has manual transmission. 2002 Ariel Atom will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1976 NSU Ro 80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ariel Atom | 1976 NSU Ro 80 | |
| Make | Ariel | NSU |
| Model | Atom | Ro 80 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1976 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 2390 cc |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2860 mm |
