2003 Ariel Atom vs. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380
To start off, 2003 Ariel Atom is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 would be higher. At 3,818 cc (8 cylinders), 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 (218 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 109 more horse power than 2003 Ariel Atom. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 should accelerate faster than 2003 Ariel Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 weights approximately 1098 kg more than 2003 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, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 157 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ariel Atom. (148 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ariel Atom. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 has automatic transmission and 2003 Ariel Atom has manual transmission. 2003 Ariel Atom will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ariel Atom | 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 | |
| Make | Ariel | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Atom | 380 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 3818 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 218 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 462 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2820 mm |
