2002 Ariel Atom vs. 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Jetta 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 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Jetta (116 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 2002 Ariel Atom. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 2002 Ariel Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 853 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 Volkswagen Jetta, 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 Volkswagen Jetta (165 Nm) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Ariel Atom. (148 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Ariel Atom.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ariel Atom | 2004 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Ariel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Atom | Jetta |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| 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 | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 1313 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2470 mm |
