2005 Ariel Atom vs. 1986 Fiat Croma
To start off, 2005 Ariel Atom is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Fiat Croma. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Fiat Croma would be higher. At 1,994 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Fiat Croma is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Fiat Croma (120 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2005 Ariel Atom. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Fiat Croma should accelerate faster than 2005 Ariel Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Fiat Croma weights approximately 660 kg more than 2005 Ariel Atom. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 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 2005 Ariel Atom. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Fiat Croma, 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, 1986 Fiat Croma (165 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Ariel Atom. (149 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1986 Fiat Croma will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Ariel Atom.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Ariel Atom | 1986 Fiat Croma | |
| Make | Ariel | Fiat |
| Model | Atom | Croma |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 1994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 149 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2670 mm |
