2003 Ariel Atom vs. 2010 Cadillac BLS
To start off, 2010 Cadillac BLS is newer by 7 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), 2010 Cadillac BLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Cadillac BLS (176 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 2003 Ariel Atom. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Cadillac BLS should accelerate faster than 2003 Ariel Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Cadillac BLS weights approximately 1098 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, 2010 Cadillac BLS, 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, 2010 Cadillac BLS (265 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 117 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ariel Atom. (148 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2010 Cadillac BLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ariel Atom.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ariel Atom | 2010 Cadillac BLS | |
| Make | Ariel | Cadillac |
| Model | Atom | BLS |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2010 |
| 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 | 176 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 265 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 462 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1460 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1770 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2680 mm |
