2002 Ariel Atom vs. 2012 Mitsubishi Pajero
To start off, 2012 Mitsubishi Pajero 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 3,199 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mitsubishi Pajero is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mitsubishi Pajero (163 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 2002 Ariel Atom. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mitsubishi Pajero should accelerate faster than 2002 Ariel Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mitsubishi Pajero weights approximately 1080 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 Mitsubishi Pajero 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, 2012 Mitsubishi Pajero 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 Mitsubishi Pajero (373 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 225 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Ariel Atom. (148 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Mitsubishi Pajero will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Ariel Atom. 2012 Mitsubishi Pajero 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. 2012 Mitsubishi Pajero will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ariel Atom | 2012 Mitsubishi Pajero | |
| Make | Ariel | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Atom | Pajero |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Roadster | SUV |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 3199 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 373 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 7 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4910 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1880 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2790 mm |
