2003 Ariel Atom vs. 1973 Mazda RX-2
To start off, 2003 Ariel Atom is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mazda RX-2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mazda RX-2 would be higher. At 2,292 cc, 1973 Mazda RX-2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Mazda RX-2 (118 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 2003 Ariel Atom. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mazda RX-2 should accelerate faster than 2003 Ariel Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mazda RX-2 weights approximately 498 kg more than 2003 Ariel Atom. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1973 Mazda RX-2 (157 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ariel Atom. (148 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1973 Mazda RX-2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ariel Atom.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ariel Atom | 1973 Mazda RX-2 | |
| Make | Ariel | Mazda |
| Model | Atom | RX-2 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 2292 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 462 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2480 mm |
