2003 Ariel Atom vs. 2013 Chevrolet Cruze
To start off, 2013 Chevrolet Cruze is newer by 10 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), 2013 Chevrolet Cruze is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Chevrolet Cruze (134 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 2003 Ariel Atom. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Chevrolet Cruze should accelerate faster than 2003 Ariel Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Chevrolet Cruze weights approximately 924 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, 2013 Chevrolet Cruze, 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, 2013 Chevrolet Cruze (169 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ariel Atom. (148 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2013 Chevrolet Cruze will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ariel Atom. 2013 Chevrolet Cruze 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. 2013 Chevrolet Cruze will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ariel Atom | 2013 Chevrolet Cruze | |
| Make | Ariel | Chevrolet |
| Model | Atom | Cruze |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| 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 | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 462 kg | 1386 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4597 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1796 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1476 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2685 mm |
