2003 Ariel Atom vs. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle 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 1,589 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Ariel Atom is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ariel Atom (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle. (104 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ariel Atom should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 835 kg more 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 Volkswagen Beetle, 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 Volkswagen Beetle (175 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ariel Atom. (148 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ariel Atom.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Ariel Atom | 2012 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Ariel | Volkswagen |
Model | Atom | Beetle |
Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
Engine Position | Rear | Front |
Engine Size | 1589 cc | 1200 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 109 HP | 104 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 148 Nm | 175 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 1 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 462 kg | 1297 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4278 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1808 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1486 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2537 mm |