2003 Ariel Atom vs. 1996 Nissan Almera
To start off, 2003 Ariel Atom is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Nissan Almera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Nissan Almera 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 23 more horse power than 1996 Nissan Almera. (86 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ariel Atom should accelerate faster than 1996 Nissan Almera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Nissan Almera weights approximately 588 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, 1996 Nissan Almera, 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 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Nissan Almera. (116 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Ariel Atom will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Nissan Almera.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ariel Atom | 1996 Nissan Almera | |
| Make | Ariel | Nissan |
| Model | Atom | Almera |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 1392 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 86 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 462 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2540 mm |
