What's the news?
Ariel has updated its minimalist sports car, improving on the Atom 3 to create the Atom 3.5. There are chassis revisions and more power for the supercharged version. Updated styling allows the sharp-eyed to identify the latest model.
Exterior
There are new head- and tail lights. Projector headlamps are said to provide better illumination while the front indicators and rear light clusters now use LED technology. Bodywork remains as minimal as ever but there are minor styling changes, including a new bonnet.
Interior
A new LCD instrument display is fitted to the Atom 3.5. This includes the usual functions including speed, rpm and gear selection. Programmable gear shift lights are also included and a data logger can be added to provide lap time and G force readouts, plus other downloadable information.
Mechanicals
Ariel continues to use Honda power for the latest Atom. The 2.0-litre i-VTEC delivers 248hp in naturally aspirated form. With the supercharged version power goes up to 314hp. Changes to the intake, mapping and fuel system are said to boost mid-range performance as well as peak power. The chassis benefits from changes made for the V8 and Mugen Atoms, increasing rigidity. New engine mounts and dampers work with the stiffer structure and are claimed to give an improved ride and enhanced balance.
Anything else?
Ariel's boss, Simon Saunders, says: "We have become the Savile Row of the automotive world," as the company's low-volume manufacturing allows it to craft each car to a customer's individual requirements.
John Lambert - 11 Oct 2012