2002 Ariel Atom vs. 2007 Mazda CX-9
To start off, 2007 Mazda CX-9 is newer by 5 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 3,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Mazda CX-9 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda CX-9 (263 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 154 more horse power than 2002 Ariel Atom. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda CX-9 should accelerate faster 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, 2007 Mazda CX-9, 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, 2007 Mazda CX-9 (339 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 191 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Ariel Atom. (148 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda CX-9 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Ariel Atom. 2007 Mazda CX-9 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. 2007 Mazda CX-9 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ariel Atom | 2007 Mazda CX-9 | |
| Make | Ariel | Mazda |
| Model | Atom | CX-9 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Roadster | SUV |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 3496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 263 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 339 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 7 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 5080 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1940 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2880 mm |
