2002 Ariel Atom vs. 2007 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 5 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 1,594 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Ariel Atom (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2007 Volkswagen Golf. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Ariel Atom should accelerate faster than 2007 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 715 kg more than 2002 Ariel Atom.
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, 2007 Volkswagen Golf, 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, both vehicles can yield 148 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2007 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 2002 Ariel Atom has manual transmission. 2002 Ariel Atom will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2002 Ariel Atom | 2007 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Ariel | Volkswagen |
Model | Atom | Golf |
Year Released | 2002 | 2007 |
Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Rear | Front |
Engine Size | 1589 cc | 1594 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 109 HP | 101 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 148 Nm | 148 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 1 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 1175 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4210 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1490 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2590 mm |