2003 Ariel Atom vs. 1971 Opel Manta
To start off, 2003 Ariel Atom is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Opel Manta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Opel Manta would be higher. At 1,589 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Ariel Atom is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ariel Atom (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1971 Opel Manta. (59 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ariel Atom should accelerate faster than 1971 Opel Manta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Opel Manta weights approximately 468 kg more than 2003 Ariel Atom.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2003 Ariel Atom (148 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Opel Manta. (90 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Ariel Atom will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Opel Manta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ariel Atom | 1971 Opel Manta | |
| Make | Ariel | Opel |
| Model | Atom | Manta |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 1196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 90 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 462 kg | 930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2440 mm |
