2000 Ariel Atom vs. 2005 BMW M3
To start off, 2005 BMW M3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2000 Ariel Atom. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2000 Ariel Atom would be higher. At 3,244 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 BMW M3 (320 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 211 more horse power than 2000 Ariel Atom. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2000 Ariel Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW M3 weights approximately 1230 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, 2005 BMW M3 (337 Nm) has 188 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Ariel Atom. (149 Nm). This means 2005 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Ariel Atom.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Ariel Atom | 2005 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Ariel | BMW |
| Model | Atom | M3 |
| Year Released | 2000 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 3244 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 320 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 7400 RPM |
| Torque | 149 Nm | 337 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 1690 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2740 mm |
