2002 Ariel Atom vs. 1997 BMW 850
To start off, 2002 Ariel Atom is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW 850 would be higher. At 5,379 cc (12 cylinders), 1997 BMW 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW 850 (329 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 220 more horse power than 2002 Ariel Atom. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW 850 should accelerate faster than 2002 Ariel Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW 850 weights approximately 1485 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, 1997 BMW 850 (490 Nm) has 342 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Ariel Atom. (148 Nm). This means 1997 BMW 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Ariel Atom. 1997 BMW 850 has automatic transmission and 2002 Ariel Atom has manual transmission. 2002 Ariel Atom will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 BMW 850 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2002 Ariel Atom | 1997 BMW 850 | |
Make | Ariel | BMW |
Model | Atom | 850 |
Year Released | 2002 | 1997 |
Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
Engine Position | Rear | Front |
Engine Size | 1589 cc | 5379 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 109 HP | 329 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 148 Nm | 490 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 1 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 1945 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4790 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2690 mm |