2003 Ariel Atom vs. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2003 Ariel Atom is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Chevrolet Malibu. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Chevrolet Malibu would be higher. At 2,392 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 2003 Ariel Atom. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2003 Ariel Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 923 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, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu, 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, 1996 Chevrolet Malibu (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ariel Atom. (148 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ariel Atom. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2003 Ariel Atom has manual transmission. 2003 Ariel Atom will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Ariel Atom | 1996 Chevrolet Malibu | |
Make | Ariel | Chevrolet |
Model | Atom | Malibu |
Year Released | 2003 | 1996 |
Engine Position | Rear | Front |
Engine Size | 1589 cc | 2392 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 109 HP | 150 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 148 Nm | 210 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 1 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 462 kg | 1385 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4850 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2760 mm |