2003 Ariel Atom vs. 1974 Chevrolet Nova
To start off, 2003 Ariel Atom is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Chevrolet Nova. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Chevrolet Nova would be higher. At 4,299 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Chevrolet Nova is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ariel Atom (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1974 Chevrolet Nova. (108 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ariel Atom should accelerate faster than 1974 Chevrolet Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Chevrolet Nova weights approximately 1073 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, 1974 Chevrolet Nova (272 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 124 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ariel Atom. (148 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1974 Chevrolet Nova will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ariel Atom.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ariel Atom | 1974 Chevrolet Nova | |
| Make | Ariel | Chevrolet |
| Model | Atom | Nova |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 4299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 272 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 462 kg | 1535 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2830 mm |
