2003 Ariel Atom vs. 1993 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2003 Ariel Atom is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1993 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1993 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 1993 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ariel Atom (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1993 Volkswagen Passat. (74 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ariel Atom should accelerate faster than 1993 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1993 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 878 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, 1993 Volkswagen Passat, 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, 1993 Volkswagen Passat (150 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ariel Atom. (148 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1993 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ariel Atom.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ariel Atom | 1993 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Ariel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Atom | Passat |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1993 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 462 kg | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2630 mm |
