2001 Ariel Atom vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 2 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 3,724 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML (232 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 123 more horse power than 2001 Ariel Atom. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 2001 Ariel Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 1725 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML (345 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 197 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Ariel Atom. (148 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Ariel Atom. 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML 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. 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Ariel Atom | 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Ariel | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Atom | ML |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Roadster | SUV |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 3724 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 345 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 205 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 2185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2720 mm |
