2005 Ariel Atom vs. 1998 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2005 Ariel Atom is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Ariel Atom (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Polo. (74 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Ariel Atom should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 530 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, 1998 Volkswagen Polo, 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, 2005 Ariel Atom (149 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Polo. (135 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2005 Ariel Atom will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Ariel Atom | 1998 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Ariel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Atom | Polo |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 149 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2410 mm |
