2003 Ariel Atom vs. 2009 Daihatsu Copen
To start off, 2009 Daihatsu Copen is newer by 6 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 1,589 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Ariel Atom is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ariel Atom (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 2009 Daihatsu Copen. (67 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ariel Atom should accelerate faster than 2009 Daihatsu Copen. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Daihatsu Copen weights approximately 443 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, 2009 Daihatsu Copen, 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, 2003 Ariel Atom (148 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Daihatsu Copen. (101 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2003 Ariel Atom will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Daihatsu Copen.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ariel Atom | 2009 Daihatsu Copen | |
| Make | Ariel | Daihatsu |
| Model | Atom | Copen |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 659 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 67 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 101 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 462 kg | 905 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 3400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1480 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2230 mm |
