2003 Ariel Atom vs. 2012 Opel Insignia
To start off, 2012 Opel Insignia is newer by 9 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), 2012 Opel Insignia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Opel Insignia (217 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 108 more horse power than 2003 Ariel Atom. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Opel Insignia should accelerate faster 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, 2012 Opel Insignia, 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, 2012 Opel Insignia (350 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 202 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ariel Atom. (148 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Opel Insignia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ariel Atom. 2012 Opel Insignia has automatic transmission and 2003 Ariel Atom has manual transmission. 2003 Ariel Atom will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Opel Insignia will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ariel Atom | 2012 Opel Insignia | |
| Make | Ariel | Opel |
| Model | Atom | Insignia |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| 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 | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1856 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1498 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2737 mm |
