2004 Ariel Atom vs. 2012 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen GTI 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen GTI is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen GTI (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 2004 Ariel Atom. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 2004 Ariel Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen GTI weights approximately 933 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, 2012 Volkswagen GTI, 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 Volkswagen GTI (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 132 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ariel Atom. (148 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ariel Atom.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ariel Atom | 2012 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Ariel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Atom | GTI |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 1393 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1501 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2578 mm |
