2009 ARIAL Atom 500

NEWS & REVIEWS Ariel has announced the latest version of the Atom - the Ariel Atom 500, powered by a small V8 engine. With over 500 hp in 1,100 lbs., package the Atom 500 will boast one of the highest power to weight ratios ever for a production car, ever. At over 1000 hp per metric ton, the Atom 500 will be the ultimate statement in performance and is destined to be made in a limited edition. The V8 powered Atom is the first of some exciting developments from Ariel due to be released though 2009 and builds on the growing reputation that the company has for putting the passion back into driving and producing cars that are fun to drive as well as fast both on and off the track. The 500 features a 3.0-litre V8 engine coupled to a 6-speed sequential gearbox. Developing over 500 hp at 10,000rpm the engine features all alloy construction, 5 valves per cylinder and a dry sump. The gearbox will have flatshift capability, a paddle gearchange with manual override as well as launch and traction controls. Recognizable by the twin rear intakes for intercoolers the Atom 500 will feature a unique color scheme for chassis, wheels and bodywork combined with carbon fiber panels and carbon fiber aerofoils. Other features will include chromemoly aerofoil wishbones, integrated function steering wheel, Alcon 4 pot caliper brakes and Dymag magnesium wheels. Prices have not yet been finalized but Ariel's commitment to performance for value will ensure that the Atom 500 is competitive in cost as well as performance. With the standard Atom 300 already achieving sub 3 second times to 60mph and sub 7 second times to 100mph, the 500 will take this one stage further with record breaking production car possibilities. PHOTOS: click photos to enlarge

2008 ARIAL ATOM 2

NEWS & REVIEWS As it says in the company’s promo material: No doors, no screen, no roof. No problem. This the Ariel Atom 2, a thinly disguised racecar for the road, and right now, comedian Jay Leno’s favorite driving machine. Earlier this year, the British company offered U.S. production rights to Ashland, Oregon-based Brammo Motorsports, and Leno got the first car off its line. Instead of the usual Honda power, U.S. versions come with the supercharged four cylinder and five-speed manual from a Chevy Cobalt SS. Take your pick of horsepower levels, from 205 to 300. With the popular 245-bhp Stage 2 package, the Atom will slingshot to 60 in 3.0 seconds and hit 155 mph. Just make sure you and your passenger are wearing helmets or you’ll be picking flies from your teeth for a month. But as a raw, riotous, and rude sports car, the Atom has few rivals. Prices start at $52 grand. www.brammo.com PHOTOS: click photos to enlarge