2002 Ariel Atom vs. 1988 Dodge Colt
To start off, 2002 Ariel Atom is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Dodge Colt. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Dodge Colt 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 28 more horse power than 1988 Dodge Colt. (81 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Ariel Atom should accelerate faster than 1988 Dodge Colt. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Dodge Colt weights approximately 535 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, 1988 Dodge Colt, 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 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Dodge Colt. (123 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2002 Ariel Atom will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Dodge Colt.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ariel Atom | 1988 Dodge Colt | |
| Make | Ariel | Dodge |
| Model | Atom | Colt |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 1467 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 123 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 995 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2400 mm |
