2002 Ariel Atom vs. 2005 Scion xA
To start off, 2005 Scion xA is newer by 3 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 1,589 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Ariel Atom is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Ariel Atom (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 2005 Scion xA. (106 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Ariel Atom should accelerate faster than 2005 Scion xA. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Scion xA weights approximately 610 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, 2005 Scion xA, 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, 2002 Ariel Atom (148 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Scion xA. (142 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2002 Ariel Atom will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Scion xA.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ariel Atom | 2005 Scion xA | |
| Make | Ariel | Scion |
| Model | Atom | xA |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 1495 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 142 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 1070 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 3920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2380 mm |
