2002 Ariel Atom vs. 1996 Volkswagen Parati
To start off, 2002 Ariel Atom is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Parati. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Parati would be higher. At 1,779 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Volkswagen Parati is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Ariel Atom (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Parati. (91 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Ariel Atom should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Parati. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volkswagen Parati weights approximately 515 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 Volkswagen Parati, 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, both vehicles can yield 148 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ariel Atom | 1996 Volkswagen Parati | |
| Make | Ariel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Atom | Parati |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 1779 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 91 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 975 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2480 mm |
