2002 Ariel Atom vs. 2004 Vauxhall Astra
To start off, 2004 Vauxhall Astra is newer by 2 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 1,910 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Vauxhall Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Vauxhall Astra (118 HP @ 3250 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 2002 Ariel Atom. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Vauxhall Astra should accelerate faster than 2002 Ariel Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Vauxhall Astra weights approximately 933 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, 2004 Vauxhall 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, 2004 Vauxhall Astra (280 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 132 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Ariel Atom. (148 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Vauxhall Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Ariel Atom.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ariel Atom | 2004 Vauxhall Astra | |
| Make | Ariel | Vauxhall |
| Model | Atom | Astra |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 1910 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 1393 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2620 mm |
