2004 Ariel Atom vs. 1969 NSU Ro 80
To start off, 2004 Ariel Atom is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 NSU Ro 80. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 NSU Ro 80 would be higher. At 1,990 cc, 1969 NSU Ro 80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1969 NSU Ro 80 (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2004 Ariel Atom. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1969 NSU Ro 80 should accelerate faster than 2004 Ariel Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1969 NSU Ro 80 weights approximately 734 kg more than 2004 Ariel Atom. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 Ariel Atom. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1969 NSU Ro 80, 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, 1969 NSU Ro 80 (188 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ariel Atom. (148 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1969 NSU Ro 80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ariel Atom. 1969 NSU Ro 80 has automatic transmission and 2004 Ariel Atom has manual transmission. 2004 Ariel Atom will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1969 NSU Ro 80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ariel Atom | 1969 NSU Ro 80 | |
| Make | Ariel | NSU |
| Model | Atom | Ro 80 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1969 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 1990 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 188 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 1194 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2870 mm |
