2002 Ariel Atom vs. 2008 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Opel Astra is newer by 6 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 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Ariel Atom (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2008 Opel Astra. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Ariel Atom should accelerate faster than 2008 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Astra weights approximately 1055 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, 2008 Opel 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, 2008 Opel Astra (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Ariel Atom. (148 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Ariel Atom.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ariel Atom | 2008 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Ariel | Opel |
| Model | Atom | Astra |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 1515 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1840 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2620 mm |
