2019 ARIEL ATOM 4

This Ariel Atom 4 is a well-specified example of perhaps the ultimate ‘no frills’ sports car, boasting sensational performance and no more than running-in mileage. It is powered by the 320bhp 2.0-litre turbocharged Honda Type R engine, driven through a six-speed manual transmission and optional limited-slip differential. The odometer shows just 325 miles.

This Atom 4 was specified with a silver powder-coated chassis, white bonnet and air intake panels, gloss black mud guards, and metallic grey road wheels. The exterior was finished with a completely polished exhaust system, aero screen, high-level brake light, and with stainless steel fixings throughout.

It is also equipped with the baffled engine oil sump, high-performance sports core coolant radiator and turbo intercooler, stainless steel fittings on the brake and clutch lines, and the AP Racing brake upgrade to 290mm discs and four-piston calipers at the front and rear. A battery master cut-off switch is also installed on the panel ahead of the cockpit.

Inside, there is a carbon-fibre instrument panel, the adjustable brake bias controller, passenger and clutch foot rest bar, and a 12-volt auxiliary power feed with USB socket. This Atom 4 was also specified with the reversing camera, Tracker security system, locking fuel cap, and with a number plate bracket and towing eye at the front. The total new list price was £53,177.

First registered in November 2019, the car is among the earliest examples of the Atom 4. It has just one previous registered keeper, which was Ariel Motor Company itself, and the seller acquired the car earlier this year.

Today, the chassis and bodywork remains in as-new condition, with no damage, scuffs, or stone chips to the panels, frame, or body trims. The mud guards are unblemished, and the front and rear light lenses and fixtures are pristine. It rides on a set of lightweight alloy wheels finished in metallic grey, which are unmarked, while the wheel bolts are all still immaculate.

The condition of the cockpit is equally impressive, and while the seller notes one small mark on the side of the passenger seat, the lightweight items otherwise present superbly. They are fitted with four-point Willans harnesses with a conventional seat belt latch. Ahead of the driver, the Alcantara-trimmed steering wheel and the carbon-fibre instrument panel are both in good order, and all of the switchgear works perfectly.

In May 2020, Ariel carried out the first scheduled service on the car at approximately 90 miles, before it was handed over to its current owner. Its first MOT test is not due until November 2022.

The wheels are fitted with Avon ZZS tyres in size 195/50 R16 at the front and 255/40 R17 at the rear, which have seen no track day use, and which have virtually their full tread remaining.

Accompanying the car is the original owner’s manual, two immobiliser fobs and USB sticks, two petrol cap keys, and the documentation for the first service.

This Ariel Atom 4 is a superb example of one of the most celebrated contemporary sports cars. It looks and drives like nothing else on the road, and this particular car benefits from numerous desirable options. Delivery incredible performance on both road and track, the Atom 4 is a rare gem, and this is a great opportunity to beat the waiting list.

At launch, Top Gear magazine praised the Atom 4’s extra breadth of capability, while still being bowled over by its engine response: “The performance is frankly ridiculous. It’s supercar fast, Ferrari 488 or McLaren 720S pace, but with extra outdoors astonishment”. It was named by Autocar magazine as Britain's Best Driver's Car in 2019 and 2020.

This Ariel Atom 4 is a high-specification example of the latest astonishing model built by the celebrated British manufacturer. It boasts incredible performance both on road and on track, and a pared-back driving experience that is quite unlike almost anything else on the market. This particular car is presented in superb condition throughout, and represents a great opportunity to beat the substantial waiting list for a rare and beautifully built sports car.

All cars and motorbikes on Collecting Cars are run through an online HPI check. This vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and has no finance owing.

Please note: the cherished plate shown on the car is not included in the sale. It will be switched back to an age-related registration plate in the event of a successful auction.