2002 Ariel Atom vs. 1986 Saab 9000
To start off, 2002 Ariel Atom is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Saab 9000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Saab 9000 would be higher. At 1,985 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Saab 9000 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Saab 9000 (135 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 2002 Ariel Atom. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Saab 9000 should accelerate faster than 2002 Ariel Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Saab 9000 weights approximately 824 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, 1986 Saab 9000, 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 Saab 9000 (172 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Ariel Atom. (148 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1986 Saab 9000 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Ariel Atom.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ariel Atom | 1986 Saab 9000 | |
| Make | Ariel | Saab |
| Model | Atom | 9000 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 1284 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2670 mm |
