2003 Ariel Atom vs. 2008 Saturn Astra
To start off, 2008 Saturn Astra 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 1,799 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Saturn Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Saturn Astra (138 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 2003 Ariel Atom. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Saturn Astra should accelerate faster than 2003 Ariel Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Saturn Astra weights approximately 1273 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 Saturn 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, 2008 Saturn Astra (171 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ariel Atom. (148 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Saturn Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ariel Atom.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ariel Atom | 2008 Saturn Astra | |
| Make | Ariel | Saturn |
| Model | Atom | Astra |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 171 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 462 kg | 1735 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2620 mm |
