2012 Audi A3 vs. 2004 Ariel Atom
To start off, 2012 Audi A3 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Ariel Atom. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Ariel Atom would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 2004 Ariel Atom. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Ariel Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Audi A3 weights approximately 1000 kg more than 2004 Ariel Atom. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 Ariel Atom. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Audi A3, 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, 2012 Audi A3 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 132 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ariel Atom. (148 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ariel Atom. 2012 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 2004 Ariel Atom has manual transmission. 2004 Ariel Atom will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Audi A3 | 2004 Ariel Atom | |
| Make | Audi | Ariel |
| Model | A3 | Atom |
| Year Released | 2012 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2000 cc | 1587 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | 6-speed automated manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 1 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3420 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1763 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1422 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2578 mm | 2350 mm |
