Atom 4 potential owner questions

[MrChips]

Hi All,

Previous TVR driver here and now thinking of an Atom4. I went to see a nearly new one yesterday and it’s definitely reinforced my interest but I have a few questions!

Does the steering column adjust down at all, assuming using spacers in the mounting brackets would be possible? I’ve seen the factory advertise steering wheel spacers but I assume this only adjusts the reach?

The seats had multiple holes in to allow mounting forward or backward adjustment but does this also adjust the angle of the seat at all? If not, then has anyone got the slimmer seats that are on the factory list?

Finally what is insurance like on the car? I’m 40 but have zero ncd to transfer so thinking specialist broker and hopefully under £500 for a limited mileage policy?

Anything else I should be checking if buying used?

All input welcome!
Cheers
Dave

[MrChips]

Banging part of the forum this is

[phil4]

MrChips said:

Does the steering column adjust down at all, assuming using spacers in the mounting brackets would be possible? I’ve seen the factory advertise steering wheel spacers but I assume this only adjusts the reach?

The steering column passes through a specific hole in the chassis (which the dash is mounted to) so I doubt it can be moved up or down.

MrChips said:

The seats had multiple holes in to allow mounting forward or backward adjustment but does this also adjust the angle of the seat at all? If not, then has anyone got the slimmer seats that are on the factory list?

No, the normal seats don't adjust angle or height... simple moved a 3-4 notches forward or backwards. I believe you can get carbon fibre seats which I think come in two widths, so narrower possible.

MrChips said:

Finally what is insurance like on the car? I’m 40 but have zero ncd to transfer so thinking specialist broker and hopefully under £500 for a limited mileage policy?

When I first insured mine they wanted proof I'd driven something "high performance" before. They also mirrored my NCD from my main car... well they said that, the net result was insurance was usually around £800 for 3000-5000 miles. They'll likely want you to have fitted an insurance approved tracker and to keep it in a locked garage over night. That may not apply if you live somewhere very dark and remote, and no I don't live in a city.

MrChips said:

Anything else I should be checking if buying used?

If you find a car, don't be afraid to phone the factory and ask them what they know. They'll be able to tell you if it's been serviced, perhaps if it's been repaired or crashed.

I'd also want any car I was buying to have been serviced by Ariel properly, and I'd check that as above.

There's a much more active Ariel Club forum where people would answer a bit quicker.



Hope the above helps, and good luck with your search.

Edited by phil4 on Thursday 24th February 16:45