2003 Ariel Atom vs. 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer
To start off, 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer 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 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer (276 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 167 more horse power than 2003 Ariel Atom. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer should accelerate faster than 2003 Ariel Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer weights approximately 1078 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 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer 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, 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer 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, 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer (355 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 207 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ariel Atom. (148 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ariel Atom.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ariel Atom | 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer | |
| Make | Ariel | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Atom | Lancer |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 276 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 355 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 462 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2640 mm |
