2003 Ariel Atom vs. 1985 Mazda 121
To start off, 2003 Ariel Atom is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mazda 121 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 54 more horse power than 1985 Mazda 121. (55 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ariel Atom should accelerate faster than 1985 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Mazda 121 weights approximately 263 kg more than 2003 Ariel Atom.
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, 1985 Mazda 121, 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, 2003 Ariel Atom (148 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mazda 121. (88 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2003 Ariel Atom will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ariel Atom | 1985 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Ariel | Mazda |
| Model | Atom | 121 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 1138 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 55 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 88 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 462 kg | 725 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 3480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2370 mm |
