2005 Ariel Atom vs. 2009 Chevrolet HHR
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet HHR is newer by 4 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 2,401 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet HHR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet HHR (172 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 2005 Ariel Atom. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet HHR should accelerate faster 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, 2009 Chevrolet HHR, 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, 2009 Chevrolet HHR (226 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Ariel Atom. (149 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet HHR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Ariel Atom. 2009 Chevrolet HHR has automatic transmission and 2005 Ariel Atom has manual transmission. 2005 Ariel Atom will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Chevrolet HHR will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Ariel Atom | 2009 Chevrolet HHR | |
| Make | Ariel | Chevrolet |
| Model | Atom | HHR |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 2401 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 172 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 149 Nm | 226 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2640 mm |
