2003 Ariel Atom vs. 1988 Renault 19
To start off, 2003 Ariel Atom is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Renault 19. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Renault 19 would be higher. At 1,764 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Renault 19 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Renault 19 (138 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 2003 Ariel Atom. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Renault 19 should accelerate faster than 2003 Ariel Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Renault 19 weights approximately 600 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, 1988 Renault 19, 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, 1988 Renault 19 (161 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ariel Atom. (148 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1988 Renault 19 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ariel Atom.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ariel Atom | 1988 Renault 19 | |
| Make | Ariel | Renault |
| Model | Atom | 19 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 1764 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 161 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 462 kg | 1062 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2680 mm |
