2004 Ariel Atom vs. 1989 Mazda 323
To start off, 2004 Ariel Atom is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,840 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mazda 323 (140 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 2004 Ariel Atom. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 2004 Ariel Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Mazda 323 weights approximately 586 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 Mazda 323, 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 Mazda 323 (164 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ariel Atom. (148 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1989 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ariel Atom.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ariel Atom | 1989 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Ariel | Mazda |
| Model | Atom | 323 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 164 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 1046 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2510 mm |
