2003 Ariel Atom vs. 1999 Citroen Xsara
To start off, 2003 Ariel Atom is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Citroen Xsara. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Citroen Xsara would be higher. At 1,868 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ariel Atom (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1999 Citroen Xsara. (70 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ariel Atom should accelerate faster than 1999 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 648 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, 1999 Citroen Xsara, 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 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Citroen Xsara. (128 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2003 Ariel Atom will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Citroen Xsara.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ariel Atom | 1999 Citroen Xsara | |
| Make | Ariel | Citroen |
| Model | Atom | Xsara |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 1868 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 128 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 462 kg | 1110 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2550 mm |
