2002 Ariel Atom vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Ariel Atom. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Ariel Atom would be higher. At 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (604 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 495 more horse power than 2002 Ariel Atom. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2002 Ariel Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1490 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (1,001 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 853 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Ariel Atom. (148 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Ariel Atom. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL 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. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2002 Ariel Atom | 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Ariel | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Atom | SL |
Year Released | 2002 | 2008 |
Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
Engine Position | Rear | Front |
Engine Size | 1589 cc | 5980 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
Horse Power | 109 HP | 604 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 148 Nm | 1001 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 1 seats | 2 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 1950 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4540 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1300 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1830 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2570 mm |