2002 Ariel Atom vs. 2003 Opel Astra
To start off, 2003 Opel Astra 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 2,172 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Astra (144 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 2002 Ariel Atom. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 2002 Ariel Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Astra weights approximately 920 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 Opel Astra, 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 Opel Astra (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Ariel Atom. (148 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Ariel Atom. 2003 Opel Astra 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 Opel Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ariel Atom | 2003 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Ariel | Opel |
| Model | Atom | Astra |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 2172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 144 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2640 mm |
