2003 Ariel Atom vs. 1991 Saab 9000
To start off, 2003 Ariel Atom is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Saab 9000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Saab 9000 would be higher. At 1,985 cc (4 cylinders), 1991 Saab 9000 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Saab 9000 (185 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 2003 Ariel Atom. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Saab 9000 should accelerate faster than 2003 Ariel Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Saab 9000 weights approximately 988 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, 1991 Saab 9000, 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, 1991 Saab 9000 (278 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ariel Atom. (148 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1991 Saab 9000 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ariel Atom.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ariel Atom | 1991 Saab 9000 | |
| Make | Ariel | Saab |
| Model | Atom | 9000 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 278 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 462 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2680 mm |
