2004 Ariel Atom vs. 2009 Nissan Qashqai
To start off, 2009 Nissan Qashqai is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Ariel Atom. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Ariel Atom would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Nissan Qashqai is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan Qashqai (138 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 2004 Ariel Atom. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Qashqai should accelerate faster than 2004 Ariel Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Nissan Qashqai weights approximately 971 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, 2009 Nissan Qashqai, 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, 2009 Nissan Qashqai (193 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ariel Atom. (148 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Nissan Qashqai will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ariel Atom.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ariel Atom | 2009 Nissan Qashqai | |
| Make | Ariel | Nissan |
| Model | Atom | Qashqai |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Crossover |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 193 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 1431 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1620 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2370 mm |
