2002 Ariel Atom vs. 2013 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 11 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 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2013 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen Golf (168 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 2002 Ariel Atom. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2002 Ariel Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 941 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, 2013 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 2013 Volkswagen Golf (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Ariel Atom. (148 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Ariel Atom. 2013 Volkswagen Golf 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. 2013 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ariel Atom | 2013 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ariel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Atom | Golf |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 1401 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4201 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1779 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2578 mm |
