2003 Ariel Atom vs. 2000 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2003 Ariel Atom is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2000 Opel Meriva. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2000 Opel Meriva would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2000 Opel Meriva is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ariel Atom (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 2000 Opel Meriva. (86 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ariel Atom should accelerate faster than 2000 Opel Meriva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Opel Meriva weights approximately 894 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, 2000 Opel Meriva, 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 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Opel Meriva. (138 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Ariel Atom will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Opel Meriva.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ariel Atom | 2000 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Ariel | Opel |
| Model | Atom | Meriva |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2000 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 86 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 138 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 462 kg | 1356 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2700 mm |
