2002 Ariel Atom vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2002 Ariel Atom is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz A (128 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 2002 Ariel Atom. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 2002 Ariel Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 635 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz A, 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz A (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Ariel Atom. (148 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Ariel Atom. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 2002 Ariel Atom has manual transmission. 2002 Ariel Atom will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2002 Ariel Atom | 1998 Mercedes-Benz A | |
Make | Ariel | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Atom | A |
Year Released | 2002 | 1998 |
Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Rear | Front |
Engine Size | 1589 cc | 1997 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
Horse Power | 109 HP | 128 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 148 Nm | 180 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 1095 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 3580 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1590 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2430 mm |