2003 Ariel Atom vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat 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 3,597 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (280 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 171 more horse power than 2003 Ariel Atom. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 2003 Ariel Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 894 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 Volkswagen Passat 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 Volkswagen Passat 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 Volkswagen Passat (359 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 211 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ariel Atom. (148 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ariel Atom. 2008 Volkswagen Passat 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. 2008 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ariel Atom | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Ariel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Atom | Passat |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 3597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 280 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 359 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 462 kg | 1356 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2720 mm |
