2002 Ariel Atom vs. 2006 Buick LaCrosse
To start off, 2006 Buick LaCrosse is newer by 4 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 3,556 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Buick LaCrosse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Buick LaCrosse (240 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 131 more horse power than 2002 Ariel Atom. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Buick LaCrosse should accelerate faster than 2002 Ariel Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Buick LaCrosse weights approximately 1486 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, 2006 Buick LaCrosse, 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, 2006 Buick LaCrosse (305 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 157 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Ariel Atom. (148 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Buick LaCrosse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Ariel Atom. 2006 Buick LaCrosse 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. 2006 Buick LaCrosse will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ariel Atom | 2006 Buick LaCrosse | |
| Make | Ariel | Buick |
| Model | Atom | LaCrosse |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 3556 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 1946 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 5040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2810 mm |
