2003 Ariel Atom vs. 2002 Mazda 2
To start off, 2003 Ariel Atom is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mazda 2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mazda 2 would be higher. At 1,589 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Ariel Atom is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ariel Atom (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 2002 Mazda 2. (66 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ariel Atom should accelerate faster than 2002 Mazda 2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mazda 2 weights approximately 698 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, 2002 Mazda 2, 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, 2002 Mazda 2 (160 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ariel Atom. (148 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Mazda 2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ariel Atom.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ariel Atom | 2002 Mazda 2 | |
| Make | Ariel | Mazda |
| Model | Atom | 2 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 1399 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 66 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 462 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 3930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2500 mm |
