2002 Ariel Atom vs. 1999 Volkswagen Passat
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 Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,595 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Ariel Atom (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1999 Volkswagen Passat. (100 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Ariel Atom should accelerate faster than 1999 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 815 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 Passat, 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 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Volkswagen Passat. (141 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2002 Ariel Atom will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ariel Atom | 1999 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Ariel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Atom | Passat |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 141 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 1275 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2710 mm |
