2002 Ariel Atom vs. 1987 Citroen AX
To start off, 2002 Ariel Atom is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Citroen AX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Citroen AX would be higher. At 1,589 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Ariel Atom is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Ariel Atom (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1987 Citroen AX. (54 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Ariel Atom should accelerate faster than 1987 Citroen AX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Citroen AX weights approximately 215 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, 1987 Citroen AX, 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 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Citroen AX. (89 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2002 Ariel Atom will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Citroen AX.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ariel Atom | 1987 Citroen AX | |
| Make | Ariel | Citroen |
| Model | Atom | AX |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1987 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 1124 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 54 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 89 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 675 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 3540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2290 mm |
