2006 Alfa Romeo 166 vs. 2003 Ariel Atom
To start off, 2006 Alfa Romeo 166 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Ariel Atom. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Ariel Atom would be higher. At 3,179 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Alfa Romeo 166 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Alfa Romeo 166 (238 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 129 more horse power than 2003 Ariel Atom. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Alfa Romeo 166 should accelerate faster than 2003 Ariel Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Alfa Romeo 166 weights approximately 1153 kg more than 2003 Ariel Atom. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 Ariel Atom. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Alfa Romeo 166, 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, 2006 Alfa Romeo 166 (289 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 141 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ariel Atom. (148 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Alfa Romeo 166 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ariel Atom.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Alfa Romeo 166 | 2003 Ariel Atom | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Ariel |
| Model | 166 | Atom |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 3179 cc | 1589 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 289 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 1 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 462 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 3420 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2350 mm |
