2004 Ariel Atom vs. 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier
To start off, 2004 Ariel Atom is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier would be higher. At 2,190 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier (121 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2004 Ariel Atom. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier should accelerate faster than 2004 Ariel Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier weights approximately 755 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, 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier, 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, 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ariel Atom. (148 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ariel Atom. 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier 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. 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ariel Atom | 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier | |
| Make | Ariel | Chevrolet |
| Model | Atom | Cavalier |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 2190 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 121 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 1215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2650 mm |
