2002 Ariel Atom vs. 1996 Renault Megane
To start off, 2002 Ariel Atom is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Renault Megane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Renault Megane 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 35 more horse power than 1996 Renault Megane. (74 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Ariel Atom should accelerate faster than 1996 Renault Megane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Renault Megane weights approximately 836 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, 1996 Renault Megane, 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 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Renault Megane. (107 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Ariel Atom will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Renault Megane.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ariel Atom | 1996 Renault Megane | |
| Make | Ariel | Renault |
| Model | Atom | Megane |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 107 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 1296 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1970 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2550 mm |
