2003 Ariel Atom vs. 2004 Volvo V50
To start off, 2004 Volvo V50 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Ariel Atom. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Ariel Atom would be higher. At 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 2004 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volvo V50 (197 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 88 more horse power than 2003 Ariel Atom. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 2003 Ariel Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volvo V50 weights approximately 968 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 2004 Volvo V50 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Ariel Atom. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Volvo V50 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2004 Volvo V50 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 172 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ariel Atom. (148 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ariel Atom.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ariel Atom | 2004 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | Ariel | Volvo |
| Model | Atom | V50 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 462 kg | 1430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2670 mm |
