2002 Ariel Atom vs. 1987 Ford Meteor
To start off, 2002 Ariel Atom is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Ford Meteor. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Ford Meteor would be higher. At 1,597 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Ford Meteor is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Ariel Atom (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1987 Ford Meteor. (71 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Ariel Atom should accelerate faster than 1987 Ford Meteor.
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 Ford Meteor, 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 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Ford Meteor. (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Ariel Atom will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Ford Meteor. 1987 Ford Meteor has automatic transmission and 2002 Ariel Atom has manual transmission. 2002 Ariel Atom will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1987 Ford Meteor will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ariel Atom | 1987 Ford Meteor | |
| Make | Ariel | Ford |
| Model | Atom | Meteor |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1987 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 121 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2410 mm |
