2004 Ariel Atom vs. 2011 BMW Z4
To start off, 2011 BMW Z4 is newer by 7 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 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW Z4 (335 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 226 more horse power than 2004 Ariel Atom. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 2004 Ariel Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW Z4 weights approximately 1150 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, 2011 BMW Z4 (450 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 302 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ariel Atom. (148 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ariel Atom. 2011 BMW Z4 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. 2011 BMW Z4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ariel Atom | 2011 BMW Z4 | |
| Make | Ariel | BMW |
| Model | Atom | Z4 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 335 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4242 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1791 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1285 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2497 mm |
