Currently reading: Ariel Atom race series announced
The new race series includes ‘Cup Spec’ Atoms only, which are powered by Honda’s 245bhp 2.0-litre Type R engine

Extreme track car manufacturer Ariel Motor Company has teamed up with Atomic Race Management to create an eight-race Ariel Atom race series for 2013.

The new race series includes ‘Cup Spec’ Atoms only, which are powered by Honda’s 245bhp 2.0-litre Type R engine. In standard specification, the Ariel Atom weighs around 525kg, will hit 60mph from standing in 3.2sec and achieves a top speed of 145mph. The race-spec cars will be slightly quicker thanks to a lower kerb weight estimated by Ariel to weigh 500kg.

On top of the standard car, ‘Cup Spec’ racers add full roll-over protection, race instrumentation and an Ohlins suspension set-up. Each race car’s wheels are also shod in identical Yokohama rubber and ‘controlled race fuel’ is used for every event. 

Ariel Atom Cup Spec optional extras include a stainless exhaust manifold, a carbonfibre instrument panel, an FIA-approved passenger seatbelt and a data log system. 

Three race packages are available to buyers - Bronze, Silver and Gold – which are priced at £63,835, £71,985 and £83,580 respectively. The Bronze package includes the race car, plus race entry and hospitality, while Silver adds tyres, fuel and track assistant (who will help set up the car). Gold also includes car storage, transport and maintenance.

Series director Mark Harrison said: “The goal is to make the Atom Cup one of the most popular and successful race series in the UK.”

An Ariel Atom one-make race series - ‘Spec Race Atom’ - has been established in the US since 2010.  Drivers in the UK series will be given the opportunity to take part in the US version. 

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Car review

In every form the Ariel Atom delivers thrills as exhilarating as any car can deliver. And there’s no greater recommendation than that.

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