2003 Ariel Atom vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 8 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz C (156 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 2003 Ariel Atom. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2003 Ariel Atom.
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 C (250 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ariel Atom. (148 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ariel Atom. 2011 Mercedes-Benz C 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. 2011 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ariel Atom | 2011 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Ariel | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Atom | C |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 156 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4606 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1459 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2760 mm |
