2002 Ariel Atom vs. 2009 Suzuki SX4
To start off, 2009 Suzuki SX4 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Suzuki SX4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Suzuki SX4 (144 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 2002 Ariel Atom. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Suzuki SX4 should accelerate faster than 2002 Ariel Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Suzuki SX4 weights approximately 835 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 Suzuki SX4, 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 Suzuki SX4 (184 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Ariel Atom. (148 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Suzuki SX4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Ariel Atom.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ariel Atom | 2009 Suzuki SX4 | |
| Make | Ariel | Suzuki |
| Model | Atom | SX4 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 144 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 184 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 1295 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2510 mm |
