2001 Ariel Atom vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Ariel Atom. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Ariel Atom would be higher. At 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz C (216 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 107 more horse power than 2001 Ariel Atom. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2001 Ariel Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 1195 kg more than 2001 Ariel Atom. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Mercedes-Benz C is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2001 Ariel Atom. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz C will offer significantly more control. 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz C (310 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 162 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Ariel Atom. (148 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Ariel Atom. 2002 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 2001 Ariel Atom has manual transmission. 2001 Ariel Atom will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Ariel Atom | 2002 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Ariel | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Atom | C |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 3199 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 216 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 1655 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2720 mm |
