2002 Ariel Atom vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 9 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 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 273 more horse power than 2002 Ariel Atom. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2002 Ariel Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1454 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 382 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Ariel Atom. (148 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Ariel Atom. 2011 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. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2002 Ariel Atom | 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Ariel | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Atom | SL |
Year Released | 2002 | 2011 |
Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
Engine Position | Rear | Front |
Engine Size | 1589 cc | 5500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 109 HP | 382 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 148 Nm | 530 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 1 seats | 2 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 1914 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4582 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1816 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1298 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2560 mm |