2005 Ariel Atom vs. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 2005 Ariel Atom is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,960 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 (188 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 2005 Ariel Atom. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 2005 Ariel Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 1085 kg more than 2005 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, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 (260 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 111 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Ariel Atom. (149 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Ariel Atom. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 has automatic transmission and 2005 Ariel Atom has manual transmission. 2005 Ariel Atom will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Ariel Atom | 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
| Make | Ariel | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Atom | 300 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 2960 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 188 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 149 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 1545 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 2010 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 3080 mm |
