2003 Ariel Atom vs. 2008 Renault Grand Espace
To start off, 2008 Renault Grand Espace 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Renault Grand Espace is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Renault Grand Espace (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 2003 Ariel Atom. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Renault Grand Espace should accelerate faster than 2003 Ariel Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Renault Grand Espace weights approximately 1488 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, 2008 Renault Grand Espace, 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 Renault Grand Espace (340 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 192 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ariel Atom. (148 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Renault Grand Espace will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ariel Atom.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ariel Atom | 2008 Renault Grand Espace | |
| Make | Ariel | Renault |
| Model | Atom | Grand Espace |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 462 kg | 1950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2870 mm |
