2004 Ariel Atom vs. 2009 BMW M3
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 5 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 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 305 more horse power than 2004 Ariel Atom. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster 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, 2009 BMW M3 (295 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 147 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ariel Atom. (148 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ariel Atom.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ariel Atom | 2009 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Ariel | BMW |
| Model | Atom | M3 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 8300 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 295 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2770 mm |
