2003 Ariel Atom vs. 2007 Opel Astra
To start off, 2007 Opel Astra is newer by 4 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 1,909 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Opel Astra (118 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 2003 Ariel Atom. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 2003 Ariel Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Opel Astra weights approximately 933 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 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, 2007 Opel Astra, 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, 2007 Opel Astra (280 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 132 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ariel Atom. (148 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2007 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ariel Atom. 2007 Opel Astra has automatic transmission and 2003 Ariel Atom has manual transmission. 2003 Ariel Atom will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Opel Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ariel Atom | 2007 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Ariel | Opel |
| Model | Atom | Astra |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 1909 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 462 kg | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2620 mm |
