2003 Ariel Atom vs. 1998 Citroen Saxo
To start off, 2003 Ariel Atom is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Citroen Saxo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Citroen Saxo would be higher. At 1,589 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Ariel Atom is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Citroen Saxo (117 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2003 Ariel Atom. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Citroen Saxo should accelerate faster than 2003 Ariel Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Citroen Saxo weights approximately 463 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, 1998 Citroen Saxo, 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 3 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Citroen Saxo. (145 Nm @ 5200 RPM). This means 2003 Ariel Atom will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Citroen Saxo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ariel Atom | 1998 Citroen Saxo | |
| Make | Ariel | Citroen |
| Model | Atom | Saxo |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 1586 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 117 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 462 kg | 925 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 3730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2390 mm |
