2004 Ariel Atom vs. 1977 BMW 528
To start off, 2004 Ariel Atom is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 BMW 528. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 BMW 528 would be higher. At 2,788 cc (6 cylinders), 1977 BMW 528 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 BMW 528 (178 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 2004 Ariel Atom. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1977 BMW 528 should accelerate faster than 2004 Ariel Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 BMW 528 weights approximately 956 kg more than 2004 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, 1977 BMW 528 (234 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ariel Atom. (148 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1977 BMW 528 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ariel Atom.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ariel Atom | 1977 BMW 528 | |
| Make | Ariel | BMW |
| Model | Atom | 528 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1977 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 2788 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 178 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 234 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 1416 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2640 mm |
