2002 Ariel Atom vs. 1998 Suzuki Vitara
To start off, 2002 Ariel Atom is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Suzuki Vitara. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Suzuki Vitara would be higher. At 1,590 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Suzuki Vitara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Ariel Atom (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1998 Suzuki Vitara. (79 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Ariel Atom should accelerate faster than 1998 Suzuki Vitara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Suzuki Vitara weights approximately 536 kg more than 2002 Ariel Atom.
Because 1998 Suzuki Vitara is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2002 Ariel Atom. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Suzuki Vitara will offer significantly more control. 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 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Suzuki Vitara. (127 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2002 Ariel Atom will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Suzuki Vitara.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ariel Atom | 1998 Suzuki Vitara | |
| Make | Ariel | Suzuki |
| Model | Atom | Vitara |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Roadster | SUV |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 1590 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 996 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1710 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2490 mm |
