2003 Ariel Atom vs. 2008 Chevrolet Optra
To start off, 2008 Chevrolet Optra is newer by 5 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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Chevrolet Optra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ariel Atom (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 2008 Chevrolet Optra. (103 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ariel Atom should accelerate faster than 2008 Chevrolet Optra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Chevrolet Optra weights approximately 713 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, 2008 Chevrolet Optra, 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, 2008 Chevrolet Optra (150 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ariel Atom. (148 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Chevrolet Optra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ariel Atom.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ariel Atom | 2008 Chevrolet Optra | |
| Make | Ariel | Chevrolet |
| Model | Atom | Optra |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 103 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 462 kg | 1175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2610 mm |
