2002 Ariel Atom vs. 1989 Dodge Spirit
To start off, 2002 Ariel Atom is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Dodge Spirit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Dodge Spirit would be higher. At 2,213 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Dodge Spirit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Dodge Spirit (150 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 2002 Ariel Atom. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Dodge Spirit should accelerate faster than 2002 Ariel Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Dodge Spirit weights approximately 856 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, 1989 Dodge Spirit, 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, 1989 Dodge Spirit (244 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Ariel Atom. (148 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1989 Dodge Spirit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Ariel Atom.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ariel Atom | 1989 Dodge Spirit | |
| Make | Ariel | Dodge |
| Model | Atom | Spirit |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 2213 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 244 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 1316 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4610 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2630 mm |
