2002 Ariel Atom vs. 1986 Pontiac Grand Am
To start off, 2002 Ariel Atom is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Pontiac Grand Am. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Pontiac Grand Am would be higher. At 2,471 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Pontiac Grand Am is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Ariel Atom (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1986 Pontiac Grand Am. (90 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Ariel Atom should accelerate faster than 1986 Pontiac Grand Am. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Pontiac Grand Am weights approximately 670 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, 1986 Pontiac Grand Am, 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, 1986 Pontiac Grand Am (179 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Ariel Atom. (148 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1986 Pontiac Grand Am will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Ariel Atom.
Compare all specifications:
2002 Ariel Atom | 1986 Pontiac Grand Am | |
Make | Ariel | Pontiac |
Model | Atom | Grand Am |
Year Released | 2002 | 1986 |
Engine Position | Rear | Front |
Engine Size | 1589 cc | 2471 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 109 HP | 90 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Torque | 148 Nm | 179 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 1 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 1130 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4520 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1340 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2630 mm |