2020 ARIEL ATOM 4

This Ariel Atom 4 is a thrilling pared-back road and track toy, with supercar-bothering pace. It was built to a high factory specification, and is offered by the first and only owner. It is powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged Honda Type R engine producing 320hp, coupled to a slick six-speed manual transmission. The odometer shows just 370 miles from new.

In creating the Atom 4, the only parts that Ariel carried over were the pedal box, fuel cap, steering wheel and part of the steering column. Otherwise, it was completely redeveloped, with a new chassis and suspension, as well as upgrades to the steering and brakes. The engine is the impressive K20C1 inline-four from the latest Civic Type R. This example was first registered on 1 February 2020.

Its owner chose the standard Bilstein dampers and Eibach springs, but specified the optional limited-slip differential, AP Racing brake kit for the front and rear, and the upgraded handbrake system. Its chassis is powder coated in silver paint, accented by bright orange panels, and it is equipped with a full heated windscreen.

In the cabin, there are lightweight composite bucket seats fitted with four-point harnesses, as well as driver and passenger footrests, and a Lifeline fire extinguisher system. There is a 12-volt auxiliary feed and USB socket, a quick-release steering wheel, and a battery master cut-off switch.

As you would expect from a car that is less than six months old, the frame, body panels, and paintwork are in excellent condition. The only note from the seller is that there is a very small blemish in the finish on the driver’s side of the chassis frame. Otherwise, the paint is in superb order, and all of the plastic body trims and covers are as-new. It rides on the 12-spoke cast alloy wheels finished in silver, which are pristine.

In the spartan cockpit, the lightweight seats are in great shape, with no damage and only very minor small marks present. The Willans safety harnesses are unmarked, and are finished in black fabric to match the primary interior colour. With only 370 miles on the clock, there is no visible wear to the Alcantara steering wheel trim, and the pedal covers are also in very good order. All of the switchgear works perfectly, and there are no faults with the clear digital display.

The car has recently returned from its running-in service and oil change at 210 miles, carried out by Ariel on 20 May 2020. Given its remarkably low mileage, the car is in as-new mechanical condition, and its first MOT test will not be due until February 2023. The wheels are fitted with Avon ZZR tyres in size 195/50 R16 at the front and 255/40 R17 at the rear, which have almost their full tread remaining.

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 2019.

This Ariel Atom 4 is a sensational lightweight sports car, which offers intoxicating performance on road or track. Offered by its first private owner, it is presented in virtually as-new condition, with little more than running-in mileage. The Atom is comfortably one of the most celebrated contemporary driver’s cars, and it always provokes smiles of curiosity and joy from people who spot it. The bespoke nature of Ariel’s builds means that these cars are a rare sight on the road, and this is a great opportunity to beat the waiting list for the latest model.

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.