2003 Ariel Atom vs. 2010 Mitsubishi Lancer
To start off, 2010 Mitsubishi Lancer 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2010 Mitsubishi Lancer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mitsubishi Lancer (291 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 182 more horse power than 2003 Ariel Atom. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mitsubishi Lancer should accelerate faster than 2003 Ariel Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mitsubishi Lancer weights approximately 1158 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 2010 Mitsubishi Lancer is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Ariel Atom. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 Mitsubishi Lancer 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, 2010 Mitsubishi Lancer (406 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 258 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ariel Atom. (148 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2010 Mitsubishi Lancer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ariel Atom.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ariel Atom | 2010 Mitsubishi Lancer | |
| Make | Ariel | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Atom | Lancer |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 291 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 406 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 462 kg | 1620 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4496 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1811 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1481 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2649 mm |
