2002 Ariel Atom vs. 2012 BMW X3
To start off, 2012 BMW X3 is newer by 10 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 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW X3 (256 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 147 more horse power than 2002 Ariel Atom. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 2002 Ariel Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW X3 weights approximately 1415 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 2012 BMW X3 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2002 Ariel Atom. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 BMW X3 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, 2012 BMW X3 (560 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 412 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Ariel Atom. (148 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Ariel Atom.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ariel Atom | 2012 BMW X3 | |
| Make | Ariel | BMW |
| Model | Atom | X3 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Roadster | SUV |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 2993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 256 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 560 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 1875 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4648 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1881 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1675 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2810 mm |
