Autoblog

Ariel developing titanium Atom chassis

Jeffrey N. Ross — Mon, 25 Mar 2013 17:31:00 EST

Filed under: Convertible, Performance, Europe, Specialty, MISC

Just last week, we heard reports that the KTM X-Bow would be getting a substantial power increase thanks to a new model using the excellent engine from the Audi TT-RS, but now its rival, the Ariel Atom, could be going in another direction for improved track performance. AutoCar is reporting that the open-wheel, open-top sports car could be getting an available all-titanium tube frame for a substantial drop in curb weight.

The article indicates that the weight of the chassis alone could drop by about 40 percent, which would lead to an overall dip in curb weight of eight percent. This would mean that the Atom's already spindly 1,350-pound curb weight could drop to less than 1,250 pounds. A titanium-framed Ariel would likely be a limited edition, according to the report, but it sounds like there are no plans to move the Atom away from its high-revving 2.4-liter four-cylinder sourced from Honda.

Ariel developing titanium Atom chassis originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 25 Mar 2013 17:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Why you should never let a family member drive your Ariel Atom

George Kennedy — Wed, 14 Nov 2012 20:00:00 EST

Filed under: Motorsports, Convertible, Safety, Videos, Racing

Any time you have to hand off the keys to a valued car, it can be a little nerve racking - and with some justification. Just check out this video, which serves as a cautionary tale of sorts. According to its YouTube description, the user, named ShakenBakeRacin, lent his Ariel Atom to his brother and recorded video of him driving the lightweight racer on the north course at VIR - Virginia International Raceway. What was probably not expected was what ensues in the video.

The driver is hot on the heels of another Atom when a combined crest-and-curve results in loss of control (okay, in addition to the car getting light, it looks like our driver may have forgotten his track map). The Ariel unceremoniously exits the racing surface. That alone would have been enough justification for the owner to ask for his keys back, but things don't end there. The scant curb weight of the Atom combined with track-minded tires proves a dangerous combination when skating across the grass infield. Considering the wide-open expanses of green space where the Atom could have slowed to a less-dramatic stop, the results feel doubly unfortunate.

At the end of the wild ride, is it just us, or does it seem like the frustrated Atom just about spits in frustration? "Ptooey!" Okay, maybe it's just us. Watch the video below and judge for yourself.

Continue reading Why you should never let a family member drive your Ariel Atom

Why you should never let a family member drive your Ariel Atom originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 14 Nov 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Ariel Atom 3.5 revealed in UK

Seyth Miersma — Fri, 12 Oct 2012 15:45:00 EST

Filed under: Convertible, Performance, UK, MISC, Racing

Ariel Motor Co. has announced a new version of its stripped-down Atom track star, the Atom 3.5. Following up on the existing Atom 3 model, both the numeration and the spec sheet call this out as an upgrade, rather than a totally new model from the British builder.

Cosmetic changes may be hard to spot for the casual observer (and the fact that Ariel doesn't have much quality photography available doesn't help, either). The 3.5 has new a new lighting system front and rear, with twin projector headlamps and LED turn signals and taillights. The car's front "hood" has been revised, as well.

Mechanically the Atom 3.5 boasts chassis tweaks that are products of the development of the hardcore Atom V8 and Mugen models, which allow this new Ariel to be stiffer, with more torsional rigidity than ever. Revised engine mounts and dampers propose a more livable Atom ride quality, too.

Power for the 3.5 still comes from a Honda 2.0-liter four-cylinder, in both naturally aspirated and supercharged flavors. The NA motor stays steady with an output of 245 horsepower while the supercharged motor gets bumped up to 315 hp.

Follow on below for the Ariel Motor Co. press release. Please note: we've got a couple calls in to Ariel, hoping for more in the way of photography of the Atom 3.5, too - we'll be sure to update this post if we get a response. We've also placed a call to Virginia-based TMI Autotech, which is licensed to manufacturer and sell the Atom in our market, to see if North American customers will be able to take advantage of the 3.5's developments as well. We'll update this post as word becomes available.

Continue reading Ariel Atom 3.5 revealed in UK

Ariel Atom 3.5 revealed in UK originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 12 Oct 2012 15:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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How does a 700-HP twincharged Ariel Atom sound?

Zach Bowman — Thu, 02 Aug 2012 11:29:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Convertible, Performance, Specialty, MISC

It sounds like the flittering of fresh $100 bills, or at least that's what we assume it sounds like. DDMWorks in South Carolina has released the first 700 conversion kit for the Ariel Atom 2. By strapping both a turbocharger and a supercharger to the Ecotec 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, the company has managed to wring a full 700 horsepower from the mill. Of course, the internals required a bit of massaging. DDMWorks threw in Darton mid sleeves, ceramic-coated Wiseco pistons, H-beam Carrillo rods and ARP hardware throughout. A set of 1,100-cc fuel injectors keep the engine fed, and a custom air-to-water heat exchanger keeps the supercharger output serviceable. The turbo, meanwhile, relies on an air-to-air intercooler.

DDMWorks went with 275-mm wide rear tires on custom 17x9 wheels to get the power to the ground. The company has even supplied the driver with the option of three power levels, including 450 hp, 575 hp and the Full Monty. Sound perfectly sinister to us. Check out the full press release below.

Continue reading How does a 700-HP twincharged Ariel Atom sound?

How does a 700-HP twincharged Ariel Atom sound? originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 02 Aug 2012 11:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Ariel Atom gets new Cup Racer series in UK

Michael Harley — Sat, 21 Jul 2012 18:01:00 EST

Filed under: Motorsports, Convertible, UK, Racing

The Ariel Atom is about the purest street-legal sports car you can buy. Known for its radical tube frame, minimalist bodywork and insane power-to-weight ratio, it is one of the quickest cars on pavement. Owners have also found them to be a natural on a racing circuit.

So it comes as little surprise to hear of the Atom Cup. In a nutshell, the Atom Cup is a new spec racing series starting in the UK next year (think along the lines of the Ferrari Challenge and Porsche Cup series) with races held at circuits such as Brands Hatch and Silverstone.

While the Ariel Atom doesn't need much in the go-fast department (the Honda 2.0-liter four-cylinder, rated at 245 horsepower, remains mostly unchanged), the 'Cup Spec' vehicles will be upgraded with a rollover cage, twin master cylinders (to adjust brake bias), six-point harness, Race Technology LCD dash display, additional protecitve bodywork, race-tuned suspension and Yokohama slicks.

The Ariel Atom Cup Racer weighs just 1,125 pounds - about 800 pounds lighter than a Lotus Exige - and it will sprint from 0-60 mph in just 3.1 seconds. Sounds like fun.

Continue reading Ariel Atom gets new Cup Racer series in UK

Ariel Atom gets new Cup Racer series in UK originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 21 Jul 2012 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Watch how an Ariel Atom 300 defines trackday perfection

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Wed, 27 Jun 2012 19:58:00 EST

Filed under: Performance, Videos, Specialty, MISC

It has no roof, no windshield and no doors. It doesn't matter. The Ariel Atom is the absolute perfect way to experience the simple pleasure of a day at the race track on four wheels.

Though it's available with as many as 500 horsepower, even the 300-hp model is able to accelerate from a dead stop to 60 miles per hour in under three seconds. That's impressive, to say the least, and the best news is that the rest of the car's statistics are just as amazing, thanks to a fully adjustable suspension system, sticky rubber at all four corners and powerful brakes.

In other words, the Atom 300 has everything you need to go fast at a race track and nothing you don't... and it's even possible to get it registered for the street. Watch the video below to find out what makes Car and Driver suggest that the Atom "may be one of the least practical cars ever, but also one of the most exciting."

Continue reading Watch how an Ariel Atom 300 defines trackday perfection

Watch how an Ariel Atom 300 defines trackday perfection originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 27 Jun 2012 19:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Ariel Atom simulator is ready to dominate your living room [w/video]

Zach Bowman — Wed, 02 May 2012 14:31:00 EST

Filed under: Etc., Technology, Toys/Games

As much as we love games like Forza and Gran Turismo, these driving simulators are hobbled by one glaring omission: peripheral vision. Driving requires a view from more than just the windshield, and while Forza 4 and Gran Turismo 5 have made steps toward giving players a better a better look at the track around them, the nature of a flat screen is cursed with limitations. Of course, if you have the cash, Motion Simulation has a solution for you. The company's new TL1 simulator was built in cooperation with none other than the minds at Ariel. You know, the folks responsible for the mighty Atom.

The system uses three high-definition projectors to give the view a complete view of the virtual track ahead. What's more, the simulator is compatible with consoles like the Playstation 3 and Xbox 360. Unfortunately, the kit is prohibitively large and expensive. If you want one, you'll have to fork over $18,600 at current conversion rates, along with a big portion of your living room. Considering that kind of cash will buy you a very nice used sports car, we'll have to take a pass on this one.

Unfortunately, there isn't a video of the actual Atom simulator available just yet, so for the moment, you'll have to content yourself with footage of the company's great-sounding Touring Car simulator. Check it out by scrolling below.

Continue reading Ariel Atom simulator is ready to dominate your living room [w/video]

Ariel Atom simulator is ready to dominate your living room [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 May 2012 14:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Mugen Ariel Atom... will it drift?

Damon Lavrinc — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 19:42:00 EST

Filed under: Etc., Videos

Flip through the pages of CAR, EVO or Top Gear, and it's obvious the British motoring press has an unhealthy obsession with getting sideways. Not that we can blame them. We enjoy a healthy dab of oppo as much as the next guy, but when the Pistonheads hive-mind starts crying foul about opposite lock shenanigans, you know it's getting out of hand.

Despite this, AutoCar has started up its own version of Blendtec's puerile "Does it Blend?" series with Will it Drift?

After putting the latest BMW M5 to the test, next up is Mugen's interpretation of the Ariel Atom. But will its 270 horsepower four-pot be enough to overcome the R-compound rubber? And if it does, is the wheelbase too short to keep the slide going? Hit the jump to find out.

Continue reading Mugen Ariel Atom... will it drift?

Mugen Ariel Atom... will it drift? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 23 Jan 2012 19:42:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Ariel Atom makers to return to motorcycle building?

Noah Joseph — Thu, 28 Jul 2011 09:00:00 EST

Filed under: Motorcycle, UK, Rumormill

Calling the Ariel Atom a "car" is a bit of a stretch. After all, it comes with no roof, no doors, no windows. So for all intents and purposes, it's basically a motorcycle with four wheels (plus two seats and a steering wheel). You're gonna want to wear a helmet, and we wouldn't recommend riding it in the rain.

Which makes sense, because the original Ariel was a motorcycle manufacturer. While the present-day automaker may have little to do with its namesake, Ariel Motorcycles was in business from 1902 through 1970, when it was folded into BSA, which in turn eventually became the Triumph we know today. Now it appears that the modern company is preparing to go back to its roots with a custom bike of its own.

The custom ride will reportedly be built around a Honda engine (much like the Atom) and be made entirely to order, giving buyers the choice of positions for the seat, pegs and handlebars to get the riding position just right. It apparently won't be a superbike, but something "more usable and fun." That's usable, not accessible: word on the street is that the new Ariel motorbike will sell in the UK for some £20,000, or about $33k in equivalent greenbacks.

Ariel Atom makers to return to motorcycle building? originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 28 Jul 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Honda CR-Z Mugen compared with.... Ariel Atom Mugen?!

Jeff Glucker — Tue, 12 Jul 2011 19:57:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Hybrid, Performance, Videos, Honda, MISC

Mugen vs Mugen - Click above to watch video after the jump

Mugen and Honda go together like vanilla ice cream and apple pie. Sure, the pie can stand on its own, but a nice scoop of ice cream takes it to another level. Mugen rolled out a pair of tuned CR-Z hybrids at the 2011 Goodwood Festival of Speed, and the blokes from Auto Express asked to spend a day with one of them. Their team also wrangled away the keys to another "unlimited power" vehicle: a Mugen-tuned Ariel Atom.

How do the two compare to each other? Let's be real here... they don't. One is a naked track assassin while the other is a juiced-up hybrid wearing a body kit. Both vehicles have had Mugen wrenches applied to their engines, but that's pretty much where the comparison should end. Still, we can't say it's not entertaining.

Click past the jump to see how they "stack up" against each other.

Continue reading Honda CR-Z Mugen compared with.... Ariel Atom Mugen?!

Honda CR-Z Mugen compared with.... Ariel Atom Mugen?! originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 12 Jul 2011 19:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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eBay Find of the Day: Alex Van Halen's murdered-out Ariel Atom

Aaron Richardson — Mon, 18 Apr 2011 08:01:00 EST

Filed under: Convertible, Performance, Auctions, Specialty

Alex Van Halen's 2009 Ariel Atom - Click above for high-res image gallery

Alex Van Halen made his name as co-founder of legendary hair metal band Van Halen, alongside the guitar-shredding talents of his younger brother Eddie. Remember the drum solo intro to "Hot for Teacher"? That was the talented Mr. Van Halen. Turns out the man behind that killer, Harley Davidson-aping drum solo is a car aficionado par excellence, apparently with a penchant for tube-frame track rats.

According to this eBay listing, Van Halen has decided to get rid of his black-on-black, Eco Tec-powered Ariel Atom. The asking price for this celebrity-owned Atom is accordingly steep, despite the fact that the only documentation of Van Halen's ownership is the seller's word.

Gallery: Alex Van Halen's 2009 Ariel Atom

[Source: eBay Motors]

eBay Find of the Day: Alex Van Halen's murdered-out Ariel Atom originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 18 Apr 2011 08:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Video: James May on the Ariel Atom V8

Chris Shunk — Mon, 24 Jan 2011 12:33:00 EST

Filed under: Videos

James May rocks the Ariel Atom V8 - Click above to watch the video after the jump

The latest Ariel Atom sports 500 horsepower from its supercharged 3.0-liter V8, yet it only weighs 1,200 pounds. That adds up to about 900 horsepower per ton; a ratio that shames anything from a Lotus to a Bugatti Veyron. Sounds riveting, and Top Gear's James May had the honor of exercising the super-fast machine in a very thorough manner.

Beyond the jump is 12 minutes of TG goodness featuring the Ariel Atom 500. Not only did May have his way with the Atom, he then put the track day superstar against a Lexus LFA and a Lamborghini Gallardo Superleggera in a race from zero to 100 and back to zero. The super Atom then thundered around the TG test track in a one-on-one battle against the BMW S1000 RR, and of course, was handed over to The Stig for a proper power lap. Hit the jump to gaze upon the marriage of Top Gear and the Ariel Atom 500.

[Source: YouTube]

Continue reading Video: James May on the Ariel Atom V8

Video: James May on the Ariel Atom V8 originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 24 Jan 2011 12:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Mugen goes molecular with special-edition Ariel Atom

Zach Bowman — Fri, 14 Jan 2011 19:27:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Performance, UK, Specialty

Mugen Ariel Atom - Click above for high-res image gallery

Here's a match made in automotive heaven. Mugen has gone about working its magic on the Honda-powered Ariel Atom to celebrate the car's 10th anniversary. While the trick red chassis and white body work is enough to get us licking our chops, the Japanese tuner has also tweaked mighty four-cylinder at the heart of the open-wheel heathen.

A fully blueprinted K20Z Type R engine now provides the grunt, and thanks to new high-compression pistons, high-lift cams and new valve springs, the four pot kicks out a lofty 270 horsepower. Mugen says that a full seven days of work goes into each and every lump.

All told, the extra pep should get the Mugen Atom to 60 mph in 2.9 seconds on its way to a top speed of 150 mph. Yowza.

Buyers will also be treated to special four-piston brake calipers built by the stopping gurus at Alcon, and a modified version of the fully-adjustable coilover suspension found on the Atom V8 is standard equipment. Additionally, the cockpit is fitted with a new flat LCD screen to display the car's vitals. So far, there's no word on price, but given that Mugen is only turning out 10 examples of this rare bird, we'd bet a shiny nickel that they won't go cheap. Hit the jump for the full press blast.

Gallery: Mugen Ariel Atom

[Source: Atom Club]

Continue reading Mugen goes molecular with special-edition Ariel Atom

Mugen goes molecular with special-edition Ariel Atom originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 14 Jan 2011 19:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Ariel Atom celebrates turning 10 with special Mugen edition

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Fri, 17 Dec 2010 14:01:00 EST

Filed under: Performance, Misc. Auto Shows, Specialty, MISC

Ariel Atom Mugen Special Edition - Click above to enlarge

It's hard to believe that 10 whole years have passed since the only Brit crazier than Amy Winehouse hit the world stage. We are, of course, referring to the Ariel Atom, but you already knew that, didn't you? And, like any good anniversary celebration, AutoExpress reports that Ariel is celebrating its tenth by releasing a special edition, which sure beats the traditional anniversary gift of tin...

As befitting the celebration, Ariel plans to create just 10 special editions, the first of which will make its debut at the Autosport Show in the UK in January. The big news is that Ariel has partnered up with Mugen - a company that specializes in adding more power and finesse to Honda's wares - to boost the power of its Honda-sourced 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine from 245 to 270 horsepower.

Further frippery will include a special coat of paint and a plaque proclaiming its special place in the order along with the signatures of the Mugen and Ariel technicians who built it (just one of each will have their hands on the machine). Check out a larger version of the rendering by clicking on the image above.

[Source: AutoExpress]

Ariel Atom celebrates turning 10 with special Mugen edition originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 17 Dec 2010 14:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Ariel Atom one-make series coming to America?

Jeff Glucker — Tue, 14 Dec 2010 16:01:00 EST

Filed under: Motorsports, Performance, MISC, Racing

2010 Ariel Atom 3 - Click above for high-res image gallery

A one-make, or spec-series race, is an exciting contest that really proves who's got what it takes behind the wheel. The Ariel Atom is an exciting vehicle that allows a driver to explore the purest expression of driving nirvana. If you are a fan of either, then 2011 should be a very good year for you. Ariel is working with Virgina International Raceway to create the world's first Atom racing series and it will be known as Spec Racer Atom (SRA).

The 10-race series will take place over the course of five weekends (similar to how Dodge handled its Viper Cup). There will be four 25-minute sessions for practice and qualifying followed by a 20-minute race. During the course of the series, the configuration at VIR will be set up four different ways.

The SRA Atoms are currently being built specifically for the series and first deliveries are expected to occur in April of next year. If you act quickly, you can be one of the first 10 to buy an SRA Atom and be considered a Founding Member of the series.

In addition to the racing, TMI Auto Tech (the company responsible for bringing the Ariel Atom to the states) will be offering Ariel Atom Experience events that allow you to get behind the wheel of an Atom 3. Currently, TMI is only going to offer this program at VIR but it sounds like it wants to expand to other venues as well. Thanks for the tip, Eric!

Gallery: Quick Spin: Ariel Atom 3

Photos Copyright (C)2010 by Jeremy Korzeniewski / AOL

[Source: AtomClub.com]

Ariel Atom one-make series coming to America? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 14 Dec 2010 16:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Ariel Atom 3 gets power influx courtesy of Wimmer RS

Noah Joseph — Thu, 09 Dec 2010 09:27:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Performance, MISC

Ariel Atom 3 by Wimmer RS - Click above for image gallery

It doesn't get much more extreme than the Ariel Atom. But Wimmer RS has managed to do exactly that.

The German tuning house has taken the Atom 3 and boosted output of the 2.0-liter turbocharged Honda four up from 300 horsepower to 340. The engine mods are carried out by a remapped ECU, rebuilt compressor and new fuel pump and exhaust with Rennkat converter. The extra power coupled with the same low 1,034-pound curb weight, the Wimmer RS Atom is capable of rocketing to 100 km/h (62 mph) in a scant 2.8 seconds and on to 200 km/h (124 mph) in 7.1.

That's mighty quick no matter which way you look at it, and look at it you may in the image gallery below, with full details in the press release after the jump.

Gallery: Ariel Atom 3 by Wimmer RS

[Source: Wimmer RS | Images: Jordi Miranda]

Continue reading Ariel Atom 3 gets power influx courtesy of Wimmer RS

Ariel Atom 3 gets power influx courtesy of Wimmer RS originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 09 Dec 2010 09:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Video: Ariel Atom dices it up on the track against... an Epson printer?!

Zach Bowman — Fri, 22 Oct 2010 12:31:00 EST

Filed under: Etc., Marketing/Advertising, Videos, Humor

Epson Inkjet vs. Ariel Atom - Click above to watch video after the jump

If we had to pick a printer company on the merits of its advertising stunts alone, Epson would hands-down be our favorite. Along with cranking out an awesome 1:1 scale paper replica of an NSX racer not too long ago, the company recently decided to pit its newest printer against an Ariel Atom 3. The premise is simple: The printer would begin printing a scale replica of said track at the exact same time as the Atom would begin slinging corners. The company even bolted the printer to the car and threw in a genuine command center for little extra drama.

Which machine comes out on top? You can probably guess given who's sponsoring this shindig, but we won't spoil it for you, either. Hit the jump to check out the spot for yourself. Now if you'll excuse us, we've got a sudden urge to go buy some ink cartridges.

[Source: YouTube]

Continue reading Video: Ariel Atom dices it up on the track against... an Epson printer?!

Video: Ariel Atom dices it up on the track against... an Epson printer?! originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 22 Oct 2010 12:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Video: Ariel Atom 3 gets the time-lapse build treatment

Jeff Glucker — Tue, 28 Sep 2010 14:59:00 EST

Filed under: Performance, Etc., Videos, Racing

Ariel Atom time-lapse build - Click above to watch the video after the jump

Are time-lapse build videos the new trend in online automotive clips? It sure seems that way as more and more of them keep squeezing out of the 'tubes. If you go back to 2008, you can see a Corvette ZR1 go from frame to furious in less than five minutes.

Last fall, the Patron Highcroft Acura prototype racecar came to life in under three minutes. Earlier this year we got to see the Chevrolet Cruze make the transformation from production vehicle to World Touring Car Championship contender in under two minutes.

Earlier in the month a BMW Z4 GT3 received the time-lapse treatment and now a new vehicle is ready to show you how its made. Top Gear has footage of an Ariel Atom moving quickly from inert to insanely-capable. The actual build took 24 hours but you can see the action unfold in under two minutes.

Make the leap to see the video after the jump.

Gallery: Quick Spin: Ariel Atom 3

Photos by Jeremy Korzeniewski / Copyright (C)2010 Weblogs, Inc.
[Source: Top Gear]

Continue reading Video: Ariel Atom 3 gets the time-lapse build treatment

Video: Ariel Atom 3 gets the time-lapse build treatment originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 28 Sep 2010 14:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Video: Autocar reviews the Ariel Atom V8

Jeff Glucker — Thu, 16 Sep 2010 20:02:00 EST

Filed under: Performance, Videos, UK, Specialty, Racing

Autocar drives the Ariel Atom V8 - Click above to watch video after the jump

Ariel finally put together its long-awaited Atom V8 and handed to the keys to ~~some lucky sonofa~~ Autocar to take the eight-pot pocket rocket out for a spin. Matt Prior got some seat time in the light-weight sportscar and provides great insight into this new Atom. Phrases from Prior include; "fastest production car anyone has ever driven," "utterly brilliant" and "TEE HEE HEE."

There are a lot of stats to wrap your head around, but this one seems to sum up it up best: The V8 Atom produces 900 horsepower per ton. By comparison, the Bugatti Veyron produces around 530 horsepower per ton. There's more, but why spoil it when you can hop the jump and watch Prior's jealousy-inducing spin.

[Source: Youtube]

Continue reading Video: Autocar reviews the Ariel Atom V8

Video: Autocar reviews the Ariel Atom V8 originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 16 Sep 2010 20:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Maker Faire Detroit 2010: 72-year-old building his own Ariel Atom clone

Sam Abuelsamid — Mon, 02 Aug 2010 15:59:00 EST

Filed under: Performance, Technology, Specialty, Design/Style

Bert Campbell's Atom chassis - Click above for high-res image gallery

The Ariel Atom is an amazing piece of automotive minimalism and could be what Lotus founder Colin Chapman would build were he still with us today. However, not everyone can swing the price tag for an Atom. In the case of 72-year-old Bert Campbell of Southgate, MI, his artificial hip also posed an ingress/egress problem. Bert is one of the participants at the first Detroit Maker Faire, and because of his mobility problem, he decided to the take the basic Atom chassis design and modify the sides to make them lower. To compensate for the loss of structure, he added a roll-cage on top.

Campbell bought the steel tubing at swap meet for about $20 and got the front control arms from another hobbyist in return for some help fixing a lathe. Campbell built his own tubing bender and roller to shape the steel and has done all the fabrication in his girlfriend's garage. Although he has several engines available, Campbell plans to install an 1100cc Yamaha motorcycle engine in the back with the original five-speed gearbox. Bert promises to keep us up to date as the project progresses, so stay tuned for more.

Gallery: Bert Campbell's home built Atom

Maker Faire Detroit 2010: 72-year-old building his own Ariel Atom clone originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 02 Aug 2010 15:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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