2002 Ariel Atom vs. 2012 Volvo S80
To start off, 2012 Volvo S80 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 1,600 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volvo S80 (114 HP) has 5 more horse power than 2002 Ariel Atom. (109 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 2002 Ariel Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volvo S80 weights approximately 1149 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, 2012 Volvo S80, 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, 2012 Volvo S80 (270 Nm) has 122 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Ariel Atom. (148 Nm). This means 2012 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Ariel Atom. 2012 Volvo S80 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 Volvo S80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ariel Atom | 2012 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Ariel | Volvo |
| Model | Atom | S80 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 114 HP |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 1609 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4628 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1864 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1483 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2776 mm |
