2003 Ariel Atom vs. 2010 Toyota Prius
To start off, 2010 Toyota Prius 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 1,800 cc (4 cylinders), 2010 Toyota Prius is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Toyota Prius (134 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 2003 Ariel Atom. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Toyota Prius should accelerate faster than 2003 Ariel Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Toyota Prius weights approximately 918 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 Toyota Prius, 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 6 more torque (in Nm) than 2010 Toyota Prius. (142 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Ariel Atom will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2010 Toyota Prius.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ariel Atom | 2010 Toyota Prius | |
| Make | Ariel | Toyota |
| Model | Atom | Prius |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 142 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 462 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1745 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1491 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2700 mm |
