2003 Ariel Atom vs. 1978 Lancia Gamma
To start off, 2003 Ariel Atom is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Lancia Gamma. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Lancia Gamma would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Lancia Gamma is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Lancia Gamma (116 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 2003 Ariel Atom. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Lancia Gamma should accelerate faster than 2003 Ariel Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Lancia Gamma weights approximately 864 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.
Because 2003 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 2003 Ariel Atom. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Lancia Gamma, 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, 1978 Lancia Gamma (175 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ariel Atom. (148 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1978 Lancia Gamma will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ariel Atom.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ariel Atom | 1978 Lancia Gamma | |
| Make | Ariel | Lancia |
| Model | Atom | Gamma |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 462 kg | 1326 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2680 mm |
