2008 Ariel Atom 3
HIGHLIGHTS
Road Registered Example
Serial #1 of the USA Ariel Atoms (TMI AutoTech,Inc.)
Lightweight, Balanced, Track Day Special
SPECIFICATIONS
VIN - AA30001
Engine – 2.0L, Four Cylinder
Gearbox – 6 Speed Manual
Drivetrain - Mid engine, RWD
Price - SOLD
OVERVIEW
The Ariel Atom set the world on fire a bit when it was first released. Top Gear had a love affair with it, featuring multiple models on the iconic TV program, each one faster than the last. They are worth watching, shows what an amazing car the Atom was at various stages with different power plants.
The car was designed as a university design project, that ultimately led to production. The exoskeleton frame became a key design language component for Ariel, and all the cars feature it prominently. Inboard cantilever dampers that are fully adjustable lead to dynamic handling, and have a broad range to be both compliant and taut depending on needs. The cars weigh in around 1,350 pounds.
In 2008 the Ariel Atom came to the USA via TMI AutoTech Inc, out of Virginia at that time. The first car they built (AA30001) is this car here. This car was used as a factory demonstration car, so had a host of great options to make it fun and desirable for use and testing. After demo responsibilities, the car was mechanically recommissioned and sold to the first private party owner, trading hands one more time before coming to the current owner and his family. Current mileage shows 15,100 miles.
The Ariel Atom 3 had many variations, and this one here features the naturally aspirated 230hp 2.0L Honda engine. It has a wicked little idle to it, and the induction howl does require earplugs when driving the car. However, with the full windscreen, no helmet is needed, and the cabin is free of buffeting at highway speeds for extended drives. Power is immediate and linear, as is handling. Extremely responsive package, and while it begs for a track day to truly stretch its legs, back road driving is more comfortable than you might think…just don’t plan on bringing much luggage!
Upon arrival at our facility, we undertook a partial cosmetic restoration of the car. Disassembly of all body work, panels, seats, wheels, fenders, etc. for through cleaning and preparation. The car shows extremely well in person. It also benefits from a recent oil service in March 2019 and a new battery as of June 2019.
The new TMI built Ariel Atom came with a base price of $64,500 in 2008. This car features approximately $20K in options from there, including the following:
Aluminum Radiator - $775
Alcon 4 Piston Calipers with One Piece Disc - $3,150
Alcon Track Compound Pads - $458
Remote Brake Bias Adjuster - $275
Parking Brake Kit - $1,335
Bilstein Adjustable Dampers with 2-piece spring - $3,200
Quick Release Steering Hub - $275
Upholstered Seat Cover - $1,250
16x7” Rear Wheel Package - $455
Toyo R888 Tires - $727
Carbon Fiber Fenders - $1,145
Side Panels - $400
Carbon Fiber Instrument Surround - $485
Yellow Bodywork - $500
Battery Master Switch - $275
Roll Bar Hoop - $990
Towing Eye Kit – Front - $603
Towing Eye Kit – Rear - $199
Lighting Kit - $1,195
AA30001 is ready for whatever you may desire next. It has spent time both on the road, and on the track. It most recently was licensed for street duty in Oklahoma, and will be sold on a clean and clear Oklahoma title.
Please contact Jason Harris at +1-206-355-7727 for more information on this 2008 Ariel Atom 3.
