New Ariel Atom Equipped with Civic Type R's Turbo K20

Thrill Machine

The concept of the Ariel Atom has always been simple - build the absolute lightest vehicle you can, then give it enough power to make it an absolute riot to drive. The result is a car that looks more like a rolling chassis than a car, which makes it less than practical, but the Atom cares not for such silly endeavors. It's built to provide its one occupant with the most thrills possible, and the new Atom 4 does that with proper K20C1 power.

Photos: Ariel

Power to Weight

Yes, the newest Atom is powered by Honda's beloved turbocharged mill that's also found in the current FK8 Civic Type R. And of course, that engine has much less weight to push around than it does in the other application - a mere 1,312 pounds compared to a little over 3,000. And as one might imagine, that translates to some impressive performance numbers

Photos: Ariel

>>Join the conversation about the Ariel Atom's Turbo K20 right here in the S2Ki forum.

Rocketship

Mounted mid-ship, the 324 horsepower, 310 pound-feet of torque provided by the K20C1 is enough to propel the Atom from 0-60 in just 2.8 seconds. Reaching 100 mph takes a mere 6.8 seconds, while top speed comes in at 162 mph. Those are certainly supercar numbers, save for the aero-restricted top speed. Or, shall we say, lack of aero.

Photos: Ariel

>>Join the conversation about the Ariel Atom's Turbo K20 right here in the S2Ki forum.

Performance Upgrade

And in case that isn't enough power, Ariel also offers a performance package that adds an additional 30 horsepower thanks to an upgraded ECU, a three-stage boost controller, and a revised exhaust system, as well as an upgraded radiator, limited-slip differential, and adjustable traction control system.

Photos: Ariel

>>Join the conversation about the Ariel Atom's Turbo K20 right here in the S2Ki forum.

Corner Carver

Of course, the Atom is not just designed to be quick in a straight line, but also dominant in the curves. The chassis itself is a bronze welded multi-diameter ERW /CDS steel tube piece with aluminum bulkheads, which rolls on a set of staggered 16 and 17" cast alloy wheels that are also available in carbon fiber for even more weight savings.

Photos: Ariel

>>Join the conversation about the Ariel Atom's Turbo K20 right here in the S2Ki forum.

Suspension Goodies

The suspension of the Atom 4 consists of Bilstein adjustable coilovers, Eibach 2-piece springs, and a host of adjustable components including the outboard rod ends and pushrods. Upgrades are plentiful here as well and include Bilstein MDS or Ohlins TTX dampers, race-grade rod ends, or race needle roller bellcranks.

Photos: Ariel

>>Join the conversation about the Ariel Atom's Turbo K20 right here in the S2Ki forum.

Budget Thrills

All of this goodness will cost you at least $74,750, which seems like a lot for a car that packs essentially zero creature comforts and zero practicality. But if you're looking for supercar thrills on a budget, few cars can touch the Atom in that department.

Photos: Ariel

>>Join the conversation about the Ariel Atom's Turbo K20 right here in the S2Ki forum.