2003 Ariel Atom vs. 2002 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 Ariel Atom is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Volkswagen Golf 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 35 more horse power than 2002 Volkswagen Golf. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ariel Atom should accelerate faster than 2002 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Volkswagen Golf 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, 2002 Volkswagen Golf, 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 23 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Volkswagen Golf. (125 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2003 Ariel Atom will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Ariel Atom | 2002 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Ariel | Volkswagen |
Model | Atom | Golf |
Year Released | 2003 | 2002 |
Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Rear | Front |
Engine Size | 1589 cc | 1390 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 109 HP | 74 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 148 Nm | 125 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 1 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 462 kg | 1110 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4160 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2470 mm |