2003 Ariel Atom vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2003 Ariel Atom is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ariel Atom (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (101 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ariel Atom should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 558 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A, 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A (150 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ariel Atom. (148 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ariel Atom.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ariel Atom | 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Ariel | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Atom | A |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 462 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 3580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2430 mm |
