2004 Ariel Atom vs. 1985 Renault 18
To start off, 2004 Ariel Atom is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Renault 18. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Renault 18 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Renault 18 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ariel Atom (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1985 Renault 18. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ariel Atom should accelerate faster than 1985 Renault 18. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Renault 18 weights approximately 675 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, 1985 Renault 18, 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, 1985 Renault 18 (163 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ariel Atom. (148 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1985 Renault 18 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ariel Atom.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ariel Atom | 1985 Renault 18 | |
| Make | Ariel | Renault |
| Model | Atom | 18 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 163 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 1135 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1410 mm |
