2002 Ariel Atom vs. 1984 Ford Fiesta
To start off, 2002 Ariel Atom is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Ford Fiesta would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1984 Ford Fiesta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Ariel Atom (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1984 Ford Fiesta. (96 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Ariel Atom should accelerate faster than 1984 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1984 Ford Fiesta weights approximately 390 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, 1984 Ford Fiesta, 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 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Ford Fiesta. (132 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Ariel Atom will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ariel Atom | 1984 Ford Fiesta | |
| Make | Ariel | Ford |
| Model | Atom | Fiesta |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1984 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 96 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 132 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 3650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2300 mm |
