2002 Ariel Atom vs. 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2002 Ariel Atom is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Ariel Atom (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit. (89 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Ariel Atom should accelerate faster than 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit weights approximately 440 kg more than 2002 Ariel Atom.
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, 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit, 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 Ariel Atom (148 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit. (135 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Ariel Atom will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ariel Atom | 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Ariel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Atom | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2410 mm |
