2009 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 2002 Ariel Atom
To start off, 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Ariel Atom. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Ariel Atom would be higher. At 2,385 cc (5 cylinders), 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider (197 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 88 more horse power than 2002 Ariel Atom. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 2002 Ariel Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 1270 kg more than 2002 Ariel Atom. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 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 2002 Ariel Atom. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider, 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 Alfa Romeo Spider (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 252 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Ariel Atom. (148 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Ariel Atom.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider | 2002 Ariel Atom | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Ariel |
| Model | Spider | Atom |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2385 cc | 1589 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 1 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1730 kg | 460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 3420 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2350 mm |
