User Panel
User Panel
User Panel
|
Posted: 9/7/2010 5:14:40 AM EDT
The Ariel Atom is a lightweight, high-performance sports car which started life as a design project by then-student Nik Smart. Ten years later, the Atom has progressed through three iterations, and there are plans to expand the Atom family with the creation of a motorcycle and the upcoming Ariel Atom 500 V8. The bike is still being developed, but some lucky Atom owners got a sneak peek at the V8-powered variant. |
|
|
|
Posted: 9/7/2010 5:16:19 AM EDT
[#1]
K, thx for sharing.
|
|
|
|
Posted: 9/7/2010 5:16:30 AM EDT
[#2]
|
|
|
|
Posted: 9/7/2010 5:17:40 AM EDT
[#3]
Wiki says: Ariel announced in February 2008 its latest Atom variant, the Ariel Atom 500. It features a 500 horsepower 3.0 litre Russell Savory designed V8 engine (also planned to be used in the Caterham 7 RS), carbon fibre body panels and aerofoils, chromoly aerofoil wishbones, integrated function steering wheel, Alcon four-piston brake calipers, and Dymag magnesium wheels. The engine weighs a mere 90 kgs and is coupled to a Sadev 6-speed sequential gearbox to cope with the hike in power over the Honda unit. [7] Ariel will produce just 25 this year, prices are expected to be at least $160,000 So it's been 2 years and nothing? |
|
|
|
Posted: 9/7/2010 5:18:19 AM EDT
[#4]
EEEEEEEvilllllllllllllllll!!!!!
 |
|
|
|
Posted: 9/7/2010 5:20:54 AM EDT
[#5]
500 hp in a car that weighs around 1300-1400 lbs, oh my.
|
|
|
|
Posted: 9/7/2010 5:25:32 AM EDT
[#6]
Quoted:
500 hp in a car that weighs around 1300-1400 lbs, oh my. ...and with no traction control or anything like that, IIRC. 500 HP in an Atom might be a good example of "too much of a good thing". In the original version it was already something that was so screaming fast it was outclassing most everything short of an F1 racecar. With 200 extra HP you're going to have to be one seriously talented dude to avoid certain death. |
|
|
|
Posted: 9/7/2010 5:27:38 AM EDT
[#7]
Quoted:
Quoted:
500 hp in a car that weighs around 1300-1400 lbs, oh my. ...and with no traction control or anything like that, IIRC. 500 HP in an Atom might be a good example of "too much of a good thing". find some F1 slicks and trailer that thing to the track |
|
|
|
Posted: 9/7/2010 5:28:20 AM EDT
[#8]
99.99% of buyers would/could not drive that car to it full potential.
A very capable toy. |
|
|
|
Posted: 9/7/2010 5:29:13 AM EDT
[#9]
Quoted:
Quoted:
500 hp in a car that weighs around 1300-1400 lbs, oh my. ...and with no traction control or anything like that, IIRC. 500 HP in an Atom might be a good example of "too much of a good thing". In the original version it was already something that was so screaming fast it was outclassing most everything short of an F1 racecar. With 200 extra HP you're going to have to be one seriously talented dude to avoid certain death. That thing would need wings the size of a 737 to stay on the ground and tires about twice as wide in the ass end to get the power to the road. The 0-60 time will SUCK compared to the lower horsed versions, no way to keep that sort of power from breaking the wheels loose. |
|
|
|
Posted: 9/7/2010 5:30:04 AM EDT
[#10]
Quoted:
find some F1 slicks and trailer that thing to the track I wouldn't try to push the original Atom to it's limits...there's no way I'd go near a 500 HP version unless it was on one of those really nice European tracks with all the huge gravel stops between the pavement and the walls. I like being alive and fully functional. 
|
|
|
|
Posted: 9/7/2010 5:35:10 AM EDT
[#11]
Quoted:
Quoted:
find some F1 slicks and trailer that thing to the track I wouldn't try to push the original Atom to it's limits...there's no way I'd go near a 500 HP version unless it was on one of those really nice European tracks with all the huge gravel stops between the pavement and the walls. I like being alive and fully functional. Even THAT would probably not be enough (assuming you could get it up to speed without breaking something or doing donoughts until the tires popped).
Cool though - nice niche vehicle. |
|
|
|
Posted: 9/7/2010 5:39:44 AM EDT
[#12]
Quoted:
That thing would need wings the size of a 737 to stay on the ground and tires about twice as wide in the ass end to get the power to the road. The 0-60 time will SUCK compared to the lower horsed versions, no way to keep that sort of power from breaking the wheels loose. Didn't the original Atom do 0-60 in less than 3 seconds? I can't imagine the 500 HP version beating that without computers helping the rear wheels do what they're supposed to do. The idea of a V8 atom reminds me of the first time I drove a Viper. They hadn't been out for very long and I managed to snag a test drive in one a dealer had just gotten in. It was cold and wet outside and the Viper was just incapable of handling a wet road. It didn't help that the throttle didn't seem terribly responsive, giving either nothing or way the fuck too much when you tried to move the pedal. I went around a sharp turn sensibly and simply applied a little throttle as I was coming out of the turn as you would normally do...and the back wheels decided that they would now be the front wheels. I managed to keep it from going around completely, but I still ended up in the other lane with oncoming traffic stomping the brakes to try and keep from hitting me head on. The sales guy almost shat his pants. Of course, his door was the one that ended up aimed right at the blue oval of the oncoming Ford truck, so I can't say that I blame him.
I would imagine the upgraded Atom is like that on dry roads...or the track...and it might even sneak into your room and kill you in your sleep. With that much power and no weight even the tiniest bit too much throttle and the back end would probably whip around on you before you could do much about it. |
|
|
|
Posted: 9/7/2010 5:47:15 AM EDT
[#13]
What will this one do to your face?
 |
|
|
|
Posted: 9/7/2010 5:50:42 AM EDT
[#14]
I'll wait for the street legal version!
|
|
|
|
Posted: 9/11/2010 11:58:46 AM EDT
[#15]
I'll take one of these:
Lotus Exos T125. 640hp, normally aspirated 3.5-liter Cosworth V8. 1,430 pounds. ~$950,000. Must pass a fitness test to purchase (5g turns).  |
|
|
|
Posted: 9/11/2010 12:00:44 PM EDT
[#16]
. |
|
|
|
Posted: 9/11/2010 12:05:05 PM EDT
[#17]
I would INSTANTLY lose my license in that thing.
|
|
|
|
Posted: 9/11/2010 12:19:26 PM EDT
[#18]
Quoted: I'll take one of these: Lotus Exos T125. 640hp, normally aspirated 3.5-liter Cosworth V8. 1,430 pounds. ~$950,000. Must pass a fitness test to purchase (5g turns). I'll take 6 Atoms, thanks. |
|
|
|
Posted: 9/11/2010 12:32:43 PM EDT
[#19]
Quoted: Quoted: find some F1 slicks and trailer that thing to the track I wouldn't try to push the original Atom to it's limits...there's no way I'd go near a 500 HP version unless it was on one of those really nice European tracks with all the huge gravel stops between the pavement and the walls. I like being alive and fully functional. I spent some time in this one ( a friends)and i can agree with J_W an atom at its limit is got full retard but the new one is just crazy.  |
|
|
|
Posted: 9/11/2010 12:39:42 PM EDT
[#20]
Quoted:
http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/09/v8186-630op.jpg The Ariel Atom is a lightweight, high-performance sports car which started life as a design project by then-student Nik Smart. Ten years later, the Atom has progressed through three iterations, and there are plans to expand the Atom family with the creation of a motorcycle and the upcoming Ariel Atom 500 V8. The bike is still being developed, but some lucky Atom owners got a sneak peek at the V8-powered variant. I'd like to see anyone less than an expert/race driver keep it's tires planted, much less keep it on the road/track at speed. Lightweights typically have 4 cylinders or less and 2 liter engine. Nurburgring time should be interesting though. It would have to be in the 6s or very low 7s to be interesting. |
|
|
|
Posted: 9/11/2010 12:53:25 PM EDT
[#21]
2.9 sec. -0- to 60........and that was the supercharged Honda type-R powerplant.. The V8 version has to be a scream.
|
|
|
|
Posted: 9/11/2010 12:55:59 PM EDT
[#22]
Quoted: you're going to have to be one seriously talented dude to avoid certain death. And some really great youtube videos for the times they don't. And some fresh fodder for the Darwin awards as well. |
|
|
|
Posted: 9/11/2010 1:01:46 PM EDT
[#23]
Quoted:
Quoted:
500 hp in a car that weighs around 1300-1400 lbs, oh my. ...and with no traction control or anything like that, IIRC. 500 HP in an Atom might be a good example of "too much of a good thing". In the original version it was already something that was so screaming fast it was outclassing most everything short of an F1 racecar. With 200 extra HP you're going to have to be one seriously talented dude to avoid certain death. Not only that, but looks like anything less than an aluminum small block Ford would throw the balance out of whack. Traction issues as well. |
|
|
|
Posted: 9/11/2010 1:04:06 PM EDT
[#24]
Pfffffffffffffftttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttttt
God damn, all over the fucking desk!
|
|
|
|
Posted: 9/11/2010 1:05:07 PM EDT
[#25]
Quoted: I would INSTANTLY lose my license in that thing. Before I even got it off the lot  |
|
|
|
Posted: 9/11/2010 1:09:29 PM EDT
[#26]
"The Atom V8 is powered by a 3.0 liter Hartley V8 which was actually developed from two Suzuki motorcycle engines. It produces 475hp in standard trim but if that isn’t enough for you, there is a 500hp race version too.
The Ariel V8 is offered with a 6-speed sequential Sadev transmission, Intrax dampers, a revised double-wishbone suspension as well as Alcon brakes that hide behind wheels that are fitted with X-rated Toyo tires." |
|
|
|
Posted: 9/11/2010 1:11:35 PM EDT
[#27]
Do so want!
 |
|
|
|
Posted: 9/11/2010 2:45:44 PM EDT
[#28]
I've been lusting after one of these for years. I would sell my left nut to own one.
|
|
|
|
Posted: 9/11/2010 2:57:40 PM EDT
[#29]
I need to learn to weld better!
And build my own. |
|
|
|
Posted: 9/11/2010 2:59:14 PM EDT
[#30]
I'll be in bunk, that thing is fucking amazing!!!
|
|
|
|
Posted: 9/11/2010 3:00:32 PM EDT
[#31]
That may well be the greatest car- IN THE WORLD!!!
|
|
|
|
Posted: 9/11/2010 3:04:01 PM EDT
[#32]
Quoted:
I need to learn to weld better! And build my own. This...
|
|
|
|
Posted: 9/11/2010 9:55:39 PM EDT
[#33]
|
|
|
|
Posted: 9/11/2010 10:00:03 PM EDT
[#34]
Quoted: That may well be the greatest car- IN THE WORLD!!!  |
|
|
|
Posted: 9/11/2010 10:01:30 PM EDT
[#35]
Jumping the shark.
Colin Chapman would not approve. |
|
|
|
Posted: 9/11/2010 10:12:13 PM EDT
[#36]
There are a number of Ariel Atoms currently licensed and road legal...well legal-ish . Of course Jay Leno has one in California, but there are several lesser mortals in California and other states that are driving those suckers on the road. I would love to take one on some long empty stretch of road and see just how malformed my face could be ala Jeremy Clarkson's alien face lift when he drove the Atom.
EDIT I see someone posted a video of Clarkson's ride. I surprised that Clarkson didn't get out of the ATOM and tell the crew he need some alone time when that ride was over. Also apparently some of the people from the Ariel Owners Club get together occassionally for a drive up one of the more scenic highways. |
|
|
|
Posted: 9/11/2010 11:11:16 PM EDT
[#37]
There is one in the Seattle area, I saw it a few weeks ago.
|
|
|
|
Posted: 9/11/2010 11:30:50 PM EDT
[#38]
Quoted: "The Atom V8 is powered by a 3.0 liter Hartley V8 which was actually developed from two Suzuki motorcycle engines. It produces 475hp in standard trim but if that isn’t enough for you, there is a 500hp race version too. The Ariel V8 is offered with a 6-speed sequential Sadev transmission, Intrax dampers, a revised double-wishbone suspension as well as Alcon brakes that hide behind wheels that are fitted with X-rated Toyo tires." so its 2 hyabusa motors? interesting |
|
|
|
Posted: 9/12/2010 12:06:03 AM EDT
[#39]
Quoted:
What will this one do to your face? http://cnreviews.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/10/topgearatom.jpg My epiglottis is full of BEES! Posted Via AR15.Com Mobile |
|
|
|
Posted: 9/12/2010 12:17:30 AM EDT
[#40]
guys its a 10k rpm motor... its not making 500hp throughout the entire power curve.. id bet its ~400hp at 7500ish
|
|
|
|
Posted: 9/12/2010 12:24:08 AM EDT
[#41]
seems a v8 would not be necessary for that platform but if you owned one i bet after a while of driving it youd be able to squeeze a little more out of that v8 without breaking traction.
|
|
|
|
Posted: 9/12/2010 12:34:01 AM EDT
[#42]
Quoted:
seems a v8 would not be necessary for that platform but if you owned one i bet after a while of driving it youd be able to squeeze a little more out of that v8 without breaking traction. You should get a Driver License before posting in these threads!
|
|
|
|
Posted: 9/12/2010 12:40:18 AM EDT
[#43]
Quoted: 99.99% of buyers would/could not drive that car to it full potential. A very capable toy. Um, I want a little more sheet metal around me. A GT2 RS, Vanquish V12, or a Ferrari would be better. For me anyway. The average American bad driver would wind up as a hood ornament on an Escalade with one of those things. |
|
|
|
Posted: 9/12/2010 1:07:55 AM EDT
[#44]
Quoted: Quoted: seems a v8 would not be necessary for that platform but if you owned one i bet after a while of driving it youd be able to squeeze a little more out of that v8 without breaking traction. You should get a Driver License before posting in these threads! ouch, man, ouch. That is one scary-fast car. |
|
|
|
Posted: 9/12/2010 8:41:58 PM EDT
[#45]
Are these things street legal? I swear I saw one of these (I guess it's the older model) parked on main street in my town two weeks ago. I had no idea what it was but it looked fucking cool.
|
|
|
|
Posted: 9/12/2010 8:48:25 PM EDT
[#46]
Quoted: Quoted: seems a v8 would not be necessary for that platform but if you owned one i bet after a while of driving it youd be able to squeeze a little more out of that v8 without breaking traction. You should get a Driver License before posting in these threads! lol you got me good there. |
|
|
|
Posted: 9/12/2010 9:10:46 PM EDT
[#47]
i'd probably spin a miata if i tried driving hard. i wouldnt even try pushing that; i'd probably spin in a straight line
Quoted:
Are these things street legal? I swear I saw one of these (I guess it's the older model) parked on main street in my town two weeks ago. I had no idea what it was but it looked fucking cool. i'm not sure, but maybe if it is sold as a kit car. i'm pretty damn sure it wont pass any sort of crash requirements, especially since it doesn't have bumpers 
|
|
|
|
Posted: 9/12/2010 9:24:24 PM EDT
[#48]
Quoted: I like the super 7 line better Wiki says: Ariel announced in February 2008 its latest Atom variant, the Ariel Atom 500. It features a 500 horsepower 3.0 litre Russell Savory designed V8 engine (also planned to be used in the Caterham 7 RS), carbon fibre body panels and aerofoils, chromoly aerofoil wishbones, integrated function steering wheel, Alcon four-piston brake calipers, and Dymag magnesium wheels. The engine weighs a mere 90 kgs and is coupled to a Sadev 6-speed sequential gearbox to cope with the hike in power over the Honda unit. [7] Ariel will produce just 25 this year, prices are expected to be at least $160,000 So it's been 2 years and nothing?  |
|
|
|
Posted: 9/12/2010 9:29:00 PM EDT
[#49]
I know a guy who bought the un-supercharged version a few years ago, I see him driving it around town a few times a year.
I guess he had it parked out front of a old spaghetti factory awhile back and some guy jumped in it and was telling everyone it was his. He even took pics and posted it on his web page and the owner found it. I think he has a few vids on the web of him driving it sears point. |
|
|
|
Posted: 9/12/2010 9:36:00 PM EDT
[#50]
That car is awesome!!! But they have said its been comming out for over 2 years now..... but I would definitely drive one!!! I'm not wuss!
|
|
|
Win a FREE Membership!
Sign up for the ARFCOM weekly newsletter and be entered to win a free ARFCOM membership. One new winner* is announced every week!
You will receive an email every Friday morning featuring the latest chatter from the hottest topics, breaking news surrounding legislation, as well as exclusive deals only available to ARFCOM email subscribers.
AR15.COM is the world's largest firearm community and is a gathering place for firearm enthusiasts of all types.
From hunters and military members, to competition shooters and general firearm enthusiasts, we welcome anyone who values and respects the way of the firearm.
Subscribe to our monthly Newsletter to receive firearm news, product discounts from your favorite Industry Partners, and more.
Copyright © 1996-2024 AR15.COM LLC. All Rights Reserved.
Any use of this content without express written consent is prohibited.
AR15.Com reserves the right to overwrite or replace any affiliate, commercial, or monetizable links, posted by users, with our own.
