2003 Ariel Atom vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2003 Ariel Atom is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (204 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 2003 Ariel Atom. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2003 Ariel Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1348 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (270 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 122 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ariel Atom. (148 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ariel Atom. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL 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. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Ariel Atom | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Ariel | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Atom | SL |
Year Released | 2003 | 1998 |
Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
Engine Position | Rear | Front |
Engine Size | 1589 cc | 2799 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 109 HP | 204 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 148 Nm | 270 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 1 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 462 kg | 1810 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4510 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2520 mm |