2008 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 2001 Ariel Atom
To start off, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Ariel Atom. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Ariel Atom would be higher. At 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 (182 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 73 more horse power than 2001 Ariel Atom. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 2001 Ariel Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 1030 kg more than 2001 Ariel Atom. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 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 2001 Ariel Atom. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159, 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 Alfa Romeo 159 (230 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Ariel Atom. (148 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Ariel Atom.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 | 2001 Ariel Atom | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Ariel |
| Model | 159 | Atom |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 1589 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 182 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 217 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 1 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 3420 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2350 mm |
