2005 Ariel Atom vs. 2008 Scion tC
To start off, 2008 Scion tC is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Ariel Atom. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Ariel Atom would be higher. At 2,399 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Scion tC is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Scion tC (161 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 2005 Ariel Atom. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Scion tC should accelerate faster than 2005 Ariel Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Scion tC weights approximately 870 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, 2008 Scion tC, 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, 2008 Scion tC (221 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Ariel Atom. (149 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Scion tC will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Ariel Atom.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Ariel Atom | 2008 Scion tC | |
| Make | Ariel | Scion |
| Model | Atom | tC |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 2399 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 149 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2710 mm |
