2004 Ariel Atom vs. 2012 Chevrolet Sonic
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic is newer by 8 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 1,800 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Chevrolet Sonic is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic (138 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 2004 Ariel Atom. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic should accelerate faster 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, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic, 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, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic (169 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ariel Atom. (148 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Sonic will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ariel Atom.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ariel Atom | 2012 Chevrolet Sonic | |
| Make | Ariel | Chevrolet |
| Model | Atom | Sonic |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 1800 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 | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4039 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1735 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1516 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2525 mm |
