2004 Ariel Atom vs. 1984 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2004 Ariel Atom is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 1,587 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Ariel Atom is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ariel Atom (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1984 Volkswagen Polo. (38 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ariel Atom should accelerate faster than 1984 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1984 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 240 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, 1984 Volkswagen Polo, 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 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Volkswagen Polo. (74 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2004 Ariel Atom will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ariel Atom | 1984 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Ariel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Atom | Polo |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1984 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 1043 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 74 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 700 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 3660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2340 mm |
