2002 Ariel Atom vs. 2003 Audi A3
To start off, 2003 Audi A3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Ariel Atom. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Ariel Atom would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Ariel Atom (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2003 Audi A3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Ariel Atom should accelerate faster than 2003 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Audi A3 weights approximately 835 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, 2003 Audi A3, 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, 2003 Audi A3 (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Ariel Atom. (148 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Ariel Atom.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ariel Atom | 2003 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Ariel | Audi |
| Model | Atom | A3 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 1295 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2580 mm |
