2004 Ariel Atom vs. 1989 Buick Reatta
To start off, 2004 Ariel Atom is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Buick Reatta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Buick Reatta would be higher. At 3,800 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Buick Reatta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Buick Reatta (165 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 2004 Ariel Atom. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Buick Reatta should accelerate faster than 2004 Ariel Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Buick Reatta weights approximately 1072 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, 1989 Buick Reatta, 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, 1989 Buick Reatta (285 Nm) has 137 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ariel Atom. (148 Nm). This means 1989 Buick Reatta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ariel Atom. 1989 Buick Reatta 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. 1989 Buick Reatta will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ariel Atom | 1989 Buick Reatta | |
| Make | Ariel | Buick |
| Model | Atom | Reatta |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 3800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 285 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 1532 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2510 mm |
