2008 Ariel Atom 3

KEY FACTS

• This Ariel Atom 3 is a lightweight and involving British sports car, offered from long-term ownership.
• It is powered by a naturally aspirated 2.0-litre Honda K-series inline-four with VTEC, delivering around 245bhp to the rear wheels via a six-speed manual transmission.
• First registered in June 2008, this example has been with the seller for seven years.
• The seller notes that the car was purchased directly from Ariel Motors in 2019.
• The odometer indicates 9,631 miles, though this is not warranted.

EQUIPMENT AND FEATURES

• This Atom 3 is finished in a timeless shade of white with a contrasting gloss-black frame and matte-black body panels, over a black cabin featuring moulded plastic seats.
• It rides on a set of 16-inch Dymag five-spoke alloy wheels finished in metallic grey and fitted with Yokohama Advan tyres.
• Equipment includes Alcon front brake callipers, a full aeroscreen, a rear roll-over hoop, adjustable coilover suspension with Eibach springs, perspex side panels, bolt-on headlights, an Alcantara-trimmed steering wheel, a TB&C brake bias adjustment valve, Willans harnesses, an aluminium gear knob and handbrake handle, a TB&C 600 Series pedal box, a drilled aluminium passenger footrest, and an Ariel-branded SPA Design instrument cluster.
• The car comes with two ignition keys and engine immobilisers
• The original low-profile wind shield is also provided as well as a set of four standard Ariel wheels with road tires.

Factory specification:

• Limited slip differential
• Polished Stainless Manifold + Silencer
• Sport Brake Package Rear
• Alcon Big Brake Kit Front
• Aluminium Dampers Adjustable Bump/Reb
• Bolt in Roll Over Bar
• Remote Brake Bias Adjuster
• Rear Towing Eye Kit
• 16” Magnesium Wheels with track tyres
• Stainless Fixings
• Aero deflectors
• High-Level Brake Light
• Locking Fuel Cap
• Passenger + clutch footrest
• 3” Seat Belt Drivers Side
• 3” Seat Belt Passengers Side
• Clear lenses with coloured bulbs
• Powdercoat chassis black

CONDITION

• Please refer to the photo gallery to assess the exterior and interior condition.
• Specific notes from the seller include: small ‘crazing’ imperfections on the rear fenders.
• The car’s last MOT test was conducted on 5 May 2026, which resulted in a clean pass.

SERVICE HISTORY

• The seller states that the last maintenance was carried out in May 2026 at an indicated 9,601 miles by Perfect Touch, which consisted of an engine oil and filter change, new spark plugs, the breather filter being replaced, and a Terraclean fuel treatment.
• The seller states that the valve clearances were adjusted, the spark plugs were replaced, the gearbox oil and brake fluid were changed, and the antifreeze was renewed in May 2024.
• Services were also performed by Ariel Motors in May 2022 at 9,430 miles and in November 2020 at 9,303 miles.
• Ariel Motors performed a service and reportedly fitted a new clutch and a new seat in May 2019 at 7,926 miles.

SUMMARY

This Ariel Atom 3 is a highly involving and thrilling featherweight British sports car, offered from long-term ownership. Presented with a timeless monochrome colour scheme, desirable usability options, and boasting a rev-happy VTEC engine coupled to an engaging six-speed manual gearbox, it would make an intoxicating companion for weekend drives, car show visits, and track-day action alike.

Descriptions are provided by the seller and, to their knowledge, are accurate and not misleading. Buyers must satisfy themselves of the description’s accuracy, and independent research is strongly advised. Enquiries should be raised in the comments section and any inspections arranged before bidding.

Classic and collectible vehicles may have had cosmetic or bodywork repairs that are not visually apparent. Photographs may not accurately reflect colour or condition, so buyers should confirm key details directly with the seller. Unless stated otherwise, you must assume that any cherished, personalised, or heritage vehicle registration is not included in the sale of a car or bike. Please see our Terms and Conditions for full details.

All UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Collecting Cars are run through an online HPI check. On the HPI report, this vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and has no finance owing.