2002 Ariel Atom vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf 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 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (114 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2002 Ariel Atom. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2002 Ariel Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 824 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, 2008 Volkswagen Golf, 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 Volkswagen Golf (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Ariel Atom. (148 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Ariel Atom.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ariel Atom | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ariel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Atom | Golf |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 1284 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2520 mm |
