2003 Ariel Atom vs. 2012 Volvo S60
To start off, 2012 Volvo S60 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 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Volvo S60 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volvo S60 (300 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 191 more horse power than 2003 Ariel Atom. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volvo S60 should accelerate faster than 2003 Ariel Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volvo S60 weights approximately 1267 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 2012 Volvo S60 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, 2012 Volvo S60 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, 2012 Volvo S60 (440 Nm @ 2100 RPM) has 292 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ariel Atom. (148 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Volvo S60 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ariel Atom. 2012 Volvo S60 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 Volvo S60 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ariel Atom | 2012 Volvo S60 | |
| Make | Ariel | Volvo |
| Model | Atom | S60 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 300 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 462 kg | 1729 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4628 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1864 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1483 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2776 mm |
