Entry-level Ariel Atom 3 priced from $49,980

Jonny Lieberman — Wed, 20 Jan 2010 13:29:00 EST

Filed under: Car Buying, Convertible, Performance, Specialty

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

Admittedly, "entry-level" is a bit of a stretch, as one ~~Jefferson~~ Jackson shy of $50k is a nice chunk of change. But we're getting ahead of ourselves. Two years ago we learned that TMI AutoTech would be the Ariel Atom's new master here in the U.S. After a few fits and starts, TMI is now selling the new Ariel Atom 3 with a starting price of just $49,980. This base model ships with a 2.0-liter Honda motor good for 219 horsepower.

We can hear some of you scoffing from over here. Never forget, the Atom weighs just 1,350 pounds. Meaning that a 219-horsepower engine can catapult the car to 60 mph in 2.9 seconds. For the sake of silly comparisons, the 638-hp supercharged Corvette ZR1 takes 3.3 seconds to achieve the same velocity. Also, don't forget we're talking about the entry-level Atom. A 245-hp version can be yours, as well as a supercharged 300-hp example. Of course, those will cost you extra.

However, if you're looking to spend a little less, TMI AutoTech can still accommodate you. For an undisclosed sum they'll happily sell you a rolling chassis and you're free to cram whatever motor you like into the Atom. Might we suggest the LS9? Though if cheap(ish) topless, doorless motoring really is your thing, a fully built Se7en can be had for around $30,000 depending upon the options. And unlike the "porky" Atom 3, proper Se7ens usually weigh in at 1,200 pounds. Just sayin'.

Gallery: Ariel Atom

[Source: TMI AutoTech via Motor Trend]

Entry-level Ariel Atom 3 priced from $49,980 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 20 Jan 2010 13:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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New company adopts Ariel Atom in the U.S.

Dan Roth — Mon, 03 Mar 2008 08:59:00 EST

Filed under: Motorsports, Plants/Manufacturing, Supercars

North American Ariel Atom production has left the auspices of Brammo Motorsports and been taken up by Trak Motorsports Incorporated, which has been working feverishly to put together a sales and manufacturing operation while also working with Brammo to maintain momentum on orders and refits to Atoms currently underway or back for upgrades. TMI started with the Atom as Brammo's Canadian distribution partner, and the company also puts on the Ariel Atom Experience events that have given it a huge amount of practical experience with a fleet of race-flogged Atoms.

Brammo and TMI have held close business ties since before Ariel licensed Atom production to Brammo, and the two companies will maintain a relationship going forward. Brammo will be an official dealer of the forthcoming Atom 3, and they might also supply composite body parts to TMI. Brammo's sales territory and supplier relationship have yet to be fully determined, but don't look for Brammo to fold up its tent and leave the scene entirely. TMI's assumption of North American Atom manufacturing and support comes with a focused determination to produce the Atom 3 in a stable and secure manner from a new home base at Virginia International Raceway, as well as significant outreach efforts to fans and owners of the skeletal track weapon with a modest pricet ag offset by a voracious appetite for high dollar supercars. Thanks for the tip, nakul!

[Source: AtomClub.com]

Continue reading New company adopts Ariel Atom in the U.S.

New company adopts Ariel Atom in the U.S. originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 03 Mar 2008 08:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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