2004 Ariel Atom vs. 2008 BMW 325
To start off, 2008 BMW 325 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Ariel Atom. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Ariel Atom would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 325 weights approximately 1060 kg more than 2004 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, 2008 BMW 325 (250 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ariel Atom. (148 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ariel Atom. 2008 BMW 325 has automatic transmission and 2004 Ariel Atom has manual transmission. 2004 Ariel Atom will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW 325 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ariel Atom | 2008 BMW 325 | |
| Make | Ariel | BMW |
| Model | Atom | 325 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 1520 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1820 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2770 mm |
