2003 Ariel Atom vs. 2011 Kia Carens
To start off, 2011 Kia Carens is newer by 8 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Kia Carens is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Kia Carens (143 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 2003 Ariel Atom. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Kia Carens should accelerate faster than 2003 Ariel Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Kia Carens weights approximately 1057 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, 2011 Kia Carens, 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, 2011 Kia Carens (189 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ariel Atom. (148 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 Kia Carens will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ariel Atom.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ariel Atom | 2011 Kia Carens | |
| Make | Ariel | Kia |
| Model | Atom | Carens |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 143 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 189 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 462 kg | 1519 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2710 mm |
