2003 Ariel Atom vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 10 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2013 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mercedes-Benz S (291 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 182 more horse power than 2003 Ariel Atom. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2003 Ariel Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1558 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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz S (385 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 237 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ariel Atom. (148 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2013 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ariel Atom.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ariel Atom | 2013 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Ariel | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Atom | S |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 6 valves |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 291 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 385 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 462 kg | 2020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 5226 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 2120 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1479 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 3165 mm |
