2000 Ariel Atom vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2000 Ariel Atom is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 5,786 cc (12 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz S (362 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 253 more horse power than 2000 Ariel Atom. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2000 Ariel Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1580 kg more than 2000 Ariel Atom. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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. Let's talk about torque, 1998 Mercedes-Benz S (530 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 381 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Ariel Atom. (149 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Ariel Atom. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2000 Ariel Atom has manual transmission. 2000 Ariel Atom will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Ariel Atom | 1998 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Ariel | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Atom | S |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 5786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 362 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 149 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 2040 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 5160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 3090 mm |
