2003 Ariel Atom vs. 1986 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2003 Ariel Atom is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Volkswagen Polo 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 65 more horse power than 1986 Volkswagen Polo. (44 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ariel Atom should accelerate faster than 1986 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 308 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, 1986 Volkswagen Polo, 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 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Volkswagen Polo. (95 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2003 Ariel Atom will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ariel Atom | 1986 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Ariel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Atom | Polo |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 1043 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 44 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 462 kg | 770 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 3660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2340 mm |
