Ariel Atom worries Bugatti Veyron

[Wizzo]

The Ariel Atom Motor Company has lately announced a new version of the Atom that comes equipped with a 3.0-liter V8 engine that produces 500bhp at 10,600rpm and 284 lb-ft of torque at 7,750 rpm. The Ariel Atom V8 enjoys a power-to-weight ratio of 909bhp per tonne, which is more than 50% better than that of the Bugatti Veyron. The Bugatti Veyron Super Sports has achieved 644bhp/tonne. The Ariel Atom V8 weighs 550kg, manages an incredible 200mph and does 0-60mph in a claimed 2.3 seconds and 0-100 mph in just 5.4 seconds. 

The drive is through a hydraulically activated Sadev 6 speed sequential race gearbox, which accounts for flat up-shifts and brings shift times to just 40 milliseconds. The LCD dash display displays the shift lights and current gear position. The uprated suspension features aerofoil section wishbones and pushrods. The aluminum monotube dampers come with remote reservoirs and the magnesium wheels help keep unsprung weight down.

The machine also has the carbon fiber bodywork, extra structural bracing in the engine compartment and the chassis powder coated with a gold finish.

Only 25 units will be put into production and 20 of them have already been pre-ordered. The Ariel Atom V8 will set you back £150,000.

[Scott]

It's one thing to beat the Veyron at the lights, but you won't be pulling up to the country club in the Atom.  They'll think you are a go-karter who escaped from a track.  I'd rather a Caterham.

[David]

Here's a bit of a review from Autocar so you guys can see the beast in action. They say it has the same power to weight ratio as a GP2 car, WOW!! Sorry the guy is a little dull and he's not really giving it the beans. Can't wait to see Clarkson at the wheel.

[Scott]

Plus with the rear engine setup and that kind of power to weight ratio, there must be insane understeer...another point for the Caterham.  If any members happen to own a Caterham, and want to, um, let me take it for a spin on a track day, um, well, you know where to reach me.   

[Ian]

I would LOOOVE to have a go in that.   

[cosworth151]

Interesting comparison to the Caterham. When Colin Chapman designed the Lotus (now Caterham) 7 back in the 50's, he was aiming at a 2 seat, road-going version of a contemporary F1 car. That seems to be what Ariel is going for with this.

The 7 is still around and still a wonderful car. I don't think the Atom will be able to claim that in 50 years. 

[Canada Darrell™]

Man, just mentioning the Veyron in the same breath as this hideous creation should be a crime! It looks like something someone designed with a bunch of leftover lego kits! It could best be described with one word....FUGLY! (look it up on the urban dictionary, but you can probably figure it out!)