2004 Ariel Atom vs. 1989 Buick Skylark
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 Skylark. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Buick Skylark would be higher. At 3,344 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Buick Skylark is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Buick Skylark (160 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 2004 Ariel Atom. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Buick Skylark should accelerate faster than 2004 Ariel Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Buick Skylark weights approximately 816 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 Skylark, 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 Skylark (251 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 103 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ariel Atom. (148 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1989 Buick Skylark will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ariel Atom. 1989 Buick Skylark 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 Skylark will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ariel Atom | 1989 Buick Skylark | |
| Make | Ariel | Buick |
| Model | Atom | Skylark |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 3344 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 1276 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2630 mm |
