2002 Ariel Atom vs. 1997 Peugeot 406
To start off, 2002 Ariel Atom is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Peugeot 406. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Peugeot 406 would be higher. At 1,761 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Peugeot 406 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. 1997 Peugeot 406 weights approximately 925 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, 1997 Peugeot 406, 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, 1997 Peugeot 406 (156 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Ariel Atom. (148 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Peugeot 406 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Ariel Atom.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ariel Atom | 1997 Peugeot 406 | |
| Make | Ariel | Peugeot |
| Model | Atom | 406 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 1761 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 156 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2710 mm |
