2003 Ariel Atom vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 6 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 1,794 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK (161 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 2003 Ariel Atom. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 2003 Ariel Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 1078 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK (240 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ariel Atom. (148 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ariel Atom.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ariel Atom | 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Ariel | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Atom | CLK |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 1794 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 462 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2720 mm |
