2003 Ariel Atom vs. 1998 Ford Laser
To start off, 2003 Ariel Atom is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Ford Laser. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ford Laser would be higher. At 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Ford Laser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ford Laser (128 HP @ 6150 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 2003 Ariel Atom. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Laser should accelerate faster than 2003 Ariel Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ford Laser weights approximately 738 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 Ford Laser, 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, 1998 Ford Laser (174 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ariel Atom. (148 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Ford Laser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ariel Atom.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ariel Atom | 1998 Ford Laser | |
| Make | Ariel | Ford |
| Model | Atom | Laser |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6150 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 174 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 462 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2620 mm |
