2002 Ariel Atom vs. 1991 Nissan Micra
To start off, 2002 Ariel Atom is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Nissan Micra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Nissan Micra 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 60 more horse power than 1991 Nissan Micra. (49 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Ariel Atom should accelerate faster than 1991 Nissan Micra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Nissan Micra weights approximately 205 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, 1991 Nissan Micra, 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 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Nissan Micra. (73 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2002 Ariel Atom will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Nissan Micra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ariel Atom | 1991 Nissan Micra | |
| Make | Ariel | Nissan |
| Model | Atom | Micra |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 73 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 665 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 3770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1570 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2310 mm |
