2003 Ariel Atom vs. 1998 Volvo C70
To start off, 2003 Ariel Atom is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volvo C70. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volvo C70 would be higher. At 1,984 cc (5 cylinders), 1998 Volvo C70 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volvo C70 (162 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 2003 Ariel Atom. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volvo C70 should accelerate faster than 2003 Ariel Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volvo C70 weights approximately 938 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 Volvo C70, 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 Volvo C70 (230 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ariel Atom. (148 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Volvo C70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ariel Atom. 1998 Volvo C70 has automatic transmission and 2003 Ariel Atom has manual transmission. 2003 Ariel Atom will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Volvo C70 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ariel Atom | 1998 Volvo C70 | |
| Make | Ariel | Volvo |
| Model | Atom | C70 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 162 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 462 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2670 mm |
