2002 Ariel Atom vs. 2009 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 7 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 2,397 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Malibu (169 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 2002 Ariel Atom. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2002 Ariel Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 801 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, 2009 Chevrolet Malibu, 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, 2009 Chevrolet Malibu (217 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Ariel Atom. (148 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Ariel Atom. 2009 Chevrolet Malibu 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. 2009 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ariel Atom | 2009 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | Ariel | Chevrolet |
| Model | Atom | Malibu |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 2397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 169 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 217 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 1261 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2860 mm |
