2003 Ariel Atom vs. 1998 BMW 318
To start off, 2003 Ariel Atom is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 318 would be higher. At 1,665 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ariel Atom (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1998 BMW 318. (90 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ariel Atom should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 318 weights approximately 828 kg more than 2003 Ariel Atom.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1998 BMW 318 (190 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ariel Atom. (148 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ariel Atom.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Ariel Atom | 1998 BMW 318 | |
Make | Ariel | BMW |
Model | Atom | 318 |
Year Released | 2003 | 1998 |
Engine Position | Rear | Front |
Engine Size | 1589 cc | 1665 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 109 HP | 90 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Torque | 148 Nm | 190 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 1 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 462 kg | 1290 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4220 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2840 mm |