2004 Ariel Atom vs. 1973 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2004 Ariel Atom is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ariel Atom (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1973 Volkswagen Passat. (108 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ariel Atom should accelerate faster than 1973 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 450 kg more than 2004 Ariel Atom.
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, 1973 Volkswagen Passat, 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, 2004 Ariel Atom (148 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Volkswagen Passat. (140 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2004 Ariel Atom will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ariel Atom | 1973 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Ariel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Atom | Passat |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 910 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2480 mm |
