2002 Ariel Atom vs. 1999 Volkswagen Lupo
To start off, 2002 Ariel Atom is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Volkswagen Lupo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Volkswagen Lupo 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 62 more horse power than 1999 Volkswagen Lupo. (47 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Ariel Atom should accelerate faster than 1999 Volkswagen Lupo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volkswagen Lupo weights approximately 510 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, 1999 Volkswagen Lupo, 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 62 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Volkswagen Lupo. (86 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2002 Ariel Atom will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Volkswagen Lupo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ariel Atom | 1999 Volkswagen Lupo | |
| Make | Ariel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Atom | Lupo |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 1043 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 47 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 3550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2330 mm |
