2003 Ariel Atom vs. 2005 Fiat Panda
To start off, 2005 Fiat Panda is newer by 2 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 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 40 more horse power than 2005 Fiat Panda. (69 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ariel Atom should accelerate faster than 2005 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Fiat Panda weights approximately 473 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, 2005 Fiat Panda, 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, 2005 Fiat Panda (255 Nm) has 107 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ariel Atom. (148 Nm). This means 2005 Fiat Panda will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ariel Atom.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ariel Atom | 2005 Fiat Panda | |
| Make | Ariel | Fiat |
| Model | Atom | Panda |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 1248 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 69 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 255 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 462 kg | 935 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 3540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2310 mm |
