2005 Ariel Atom vs. 1994 Mazda 626
To start off, 2005 Ariel Atom is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1994 Mazda 626 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Ariel Atom (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1994 Mazda 626. (74 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Ariel Atom should accelerate faster than 1994 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1994 Mazda 626 weights approximately 798 kg more than 2005 Ariel Atom.
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, 1994 Mazda 626, 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, 1994 Mazda 626 (172 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Ariel Atom. (149 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1994 Mazda 626 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Ariel Atom.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Ariel Atom | 1994 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | Ariel | Mazda |
| Model | Atom | 626 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1994 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 149 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 1258 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2620 mm |
