2005 Ariel Atom vs. 1996 Saturn SL
To start off, 2005 Ariel Atom is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Saturn SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Saturn SL would be higher. At 1,901 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Saturn SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Ariel Atom (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1996 Saturn SL. (100 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Ariel Atom should accelerate faster than 1996 Saturn SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Saturn SL weights approximately 596 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, 1996 Saturn SL, 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, 1996 Saturn SL (158 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Ariel Atom. (149 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Saturn SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Ariel Atom.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Ariel Atom | 1996 Saturn SL | |
| Make | Ariel | Saturn |
| Model | Atom | SL |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 1901 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 149 Nm | 158 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 1056 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1400 mm |
