2002 Ariel Atom vs. 1988 Volkswagen Quantum
To start off, 2002 Ariel Atom is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volkswagen Quantum. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volkswagen Quantum would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Volkswagen Quantum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 109 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Volkswagen Quantum 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, 1988 Volkswagen Quantum, 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, 1988 Volkswagen Quantum (173 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Ariel Atom. (148 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1988 Volkswagen Quantum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Ariel Atom.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ariel Atom | 1988 Volkswagen Quantum | |
| Make | Ariel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Atom | Quantum |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 173 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 1130 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2560 mm |
