Ariel Atom 500 V8
A motorcycle-derived V8 masterpiece with a power-to-weight ratio exceeding 900 bhp per tonne.
- Power
- 500 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 2.3 s
- Top speed
- 171 mph
- Est. value
- $200k–$280k
About the Ariel Atom 500 V8
The Ariel Atom 500 V8 is a limited-production extreme performance variant of the Atom 3, distinguished by its gold-painted exoskeleton and bespoke 3.0-litre V8 engine. Developed by Hartley Enterprises, the engine was famously created by joining two Suzuki Hayabusa inline-four cylinder heads to a common crank, resulting in a stratospheric 10,600 rpm redline. With a kerb weight of just 550 kg, it held the Top Gear test track record for over two years with a time of 1:15.1. Driving it is a visceral experience, defined by the absence of bodywork, a screaming high-revving soundtrack, and acceleration that rivals modern hypercars.
Ariel Atom 500 V8 specs
The Ariel Atom 500 V8 produces 500 bhp (373 kW) and 363 Nm (268 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 2.3 seconds and has a top speed of 171 mph (275 km/h).
| Make | Ariel |
|---|---|
| Model | Atom 500 V8 |
| Trim | 3.0 V8 |
| Years | 2010–2013 |
| Type | Hypercar |
| Body style | Roadster |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Production | About 25 built |
| Engine | 3.0-litre naturally aspirated V8 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 3,000 cc (3.0 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 500 bhp (373 kW) at 10,600 rpm |
| Torque | 363 Nm (268 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 10,600 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 2.3 s |
| Top speed | 171 mph (275 km/h) |
| Transmission | 6-speed sequential |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 550 kg (1,213 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 909 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is an Ariel Atom 500 V8 worth?
A typical Ariel Atom 500 V8 is estimated to be worth $200,000 – $280,000 (about £149,000 – £209,000).
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Ariel Atom 500 V8 rarity in CarSpot
The Ariel Atom 500 V8 is a Unicorn card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 100 out of 100. The rarest tier: hypercars, one-offs and cars built in tiny numbers, typically fewer than about 500. A Unicorn card is worth 320 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Ariel Atom 500 V8 fun facts
- The Atom 500 V8's engine weighs less than 90 kg, which is lighter than the standard Honda four-cylinder engine used in other Atoms.
- It features a unique gold-coloured chassis and wheels to distinguish it from the standard black or silver frames of the Atom 3.
- At its launch, it claimed a power-to-weight ratio of 909 bhp per tonne, nearly double that of the Bugatti Veyron.
