2002 Ariel Atom vs. 1994 BMW M5
To start off, 2002 Ariel Atom is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 BMW M5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 BMW M5 would be higher. At 3,793 cc (6 cylinders), 1994 BMW M5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 BMW M5 (335 HP @ 6900 RPM) has 226 more horse power than 2002 Ariel Atom. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1994 BMW M5 should accelerate faster than 2002 Ariel Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1994 BMW M5 weights approximately 1326 kg more than 2002 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, 1994 BMW M5 (400 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 252 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Ariel Atom. (148 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1994 BMW M5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Ariel Atom.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ariel Atom | 1994 BMW M5 | |
| Make | Ariel | BMW |
| Model | Atom | M5 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1994 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 3793 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 335 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6900 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 1786 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2730 mm |
