2004 Ariel Atom vs. 1999 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2004 Ariel Atom is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Opel Meriva. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Opel Meriva would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Opel Meriva is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Opel Meriva (129 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2004 Ariel Atom. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Opel Meriva should accelerate faster than 2004 Ariel Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Opel Meriva weights approximately 978 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, 1999 Opel Meriva, 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, 1999 Opel Meriva (220 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ariel Atom. (148 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 Opel Meriva will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ariel Atom.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ariel Atom | 1999 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Ariel | Opel |
| Model | Atom | Meriva |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 1438 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2640 mm |
