2002 Ariel Atom vs. 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
To start off, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser 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 2,399 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser (215 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 2002 Ariel Atom. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 2002 Ariel Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 1045 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, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser, 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 Chrysler PT Cruiser (339 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 191 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Ariel Atom. (148 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Ariel Atom. 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser 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. 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ariel Atom | 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser | |
| Make | Ariel | Chrysler |
| Model | Atom | PT Cruiser |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 2399 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 339 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 1505 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2620 mm |
