2004 Ariel Atom vs. 1998 Holden Nova
To start off, 2004 Ariel Atom is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Holden Nova. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Holden Nova would be higher. At 1,587 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Ariel Atom is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ariel Atom (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1998 Holden Nova. (105 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ariel Atom should accelerate faster than 1998 Holden Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Holden Nova weights approximately 630 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, 1998 Holden Nova, 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, 2004 Ariel Atom (148 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Holden Nova. (135 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2004 Ariel Atom will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Holden Nova.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ariel Atom | 1998 Holden Nova | |
| Make | Ariel | Holden |
| Model | Atom | Nova |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 1585 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 105 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 1090 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2470 mm |
