2000 Ariel Atom vs. 1960 BMW 502
To start off, 2000 Ariel Atom is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1960 BMW 502. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1960 BMW 502 would be higher. At 2,580 cc (8 cylinders), 1960 BMW 502 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Ariel Atom (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1960 BMW 502. (100 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 Ariel Atom should accelerate faster than 1960 BMW 502. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1960 BMW 502 weights approximately 950 kg more than 2000 Ariel Atom.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Ariel Atom | 1960 BMW 502 | |
| Make | Ariel | BMW |
| Model | Atom | 502 |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1960 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 2580 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2840 mm |
