2003 Ariel Atom vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Ariel Atom. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Ariel Atom would be higher. At 6,208 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML (503 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 394 more horse power than 2003 Ariel Atom. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 2003 Ariel Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 1848 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.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Ariel Atom. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML will offer significantly more control. 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 ML (631 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 483 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ariel Atom. (148 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ariel Atom. 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML 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. 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ariel Atom | 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Ariel | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Atom | ML |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Roadster | SUV |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 6208 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 503 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 631 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 462 kg | 2310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2920 mm |
