First sport's car: 370z or Ariel Atom?

[ChrisSlicks]

Originally Posted by flatrick

There's no snow here in winter and it doesn't get that cold. I think I could probably drive it with a proper jacket, granted that I also get the windshield.
I don't understand however what's the problem with driving the atom in the summer? Only reason I can fathom is that the sun is far too hot where your friend is at, but at least here everyone is driving with roadsters the whole summer long. If it's the plastic chairs which are the problem, since I guess they get burning hot in the summer, that won't be an issue because I would most likely replace them anyway.

In the winter if you get stuck in slow traffic the rain beats down on you and the seats pool water. The wind gets in underneath and your legs freeze.

In the summer the seats are uncomfortable and sweaty. Sure it's nice to drive around top down in a sports car but at least then you have the option to blow a little A/C in your face if it gets really hot. Just take care not to park in the sun as when you return you will fry in the seat.

The Atom isn't the most stable car at speed, it's built with a short wheel base for improved turn-in response. I don't know if I would trust myself blasting down the auto-bahn at 140-155 mph with no nannies to help you out if you hit a bump mid corner. The Z doesn't accelerate as fast obviously but it too is capable of 155-160 mph in stock form. The convertible Z will likely be out next spring in Europe and the styling looks pretty nice.

[flatrick]

Originally Posted by ChrisSlicks

In the winter if you get stuck in slow traffic the rain beats down on you and the seats pool water. The wind gets in underneath and your legs freeze.

In the summer the seats are uncomfortable and sweaty. Sure it's nice to drive around top down in a sports car but at least then you have the option to blow a little A/C in your face if it gets really hot. Just take care not to park in the sun as when you return you will fry in the seat.

Ah ok, I can definitely see the problem there. I am rather a rustic person, who loves the rain and even enjoys the cold weather (snow in particular). So, whatever the conditions are, I think I would certainly embrace them because in my way of thinking discomforts often make you feel more alive than anything else. I am not a masochist, but I do enjoy for example doing sports until I feel extreme pain, especially in a rainy cold weather.
However, my girlfriend, while not a total wimp, would definitely not like to get stuck in those situations you mentioned!

Originally Posted by ChrisSlicks

The Atom isn't the most stable car at speed, it's built with a short wheel base for improved turn-in response. I don't know if I would trust myself blasting down the auto-bahn at 140-155 mph with no nannies to help you out if you hit a bump mid corner. The Z doesn't accelerate as fast obviously but it too is capable of 155-160 mph in stock form. The convertible Z will likely be out next spring in Europe and the styling looks pretty nice.

Heh. Last week I was opting for the Atom, this week I would rather go for the Z.

Whichever I will ultimately go for, I would probably not often ride at +120 mph. It's the acceleration and maneuverability that is the thrill!