2002 Ariel Atom vs. 2010 Volkswagen T5
To start off, 2010 Volkswagen T5 is newer by 8 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 2,459 cc (5 cylinders), 2010 Volkswagen T5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Volkswagen T5 (172 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 2002 Ariel Atom. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Volkswagen T5 should accelerate faster than 2002 Ariel Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Volkswagen T5 weights approximately 1850 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 2010 Volkswagen T5 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, 2010 Volkswagen T5 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, 2010 Volkswagen T5 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 252 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Ariel Atom. (148 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2010 Volkswagen T5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Ariel Atom.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ariel Atom | 2010 Volkswagen T5 | |
| Make | Ariel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Atom | T5 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 2459 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 172 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 2310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1980 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 3010 mm |
