2002 Ariel Atom vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat 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 2,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (178 HP) has 69 more horse power than 2002 Ariel Atom. (109 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 2002 Ariel Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 1123 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 2008 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2002 Ariel Atom. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat will offer significantly more control. 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 Passat (371 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 223 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Ariel Atom. (148 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Passat 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 Passat | |
| Make | Ariel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Atom | Passat |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 2496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 178 HP |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 371 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 1583 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2710 mm |
