ARIEL

Ariel Nomad 2: the English sports car that develops 309 hp with the Ford Focus ST engine

Every now and then we come across creations in the motorized world that are out of the ordinary. And it's not about the preparations that some automotive aftermarket experts create based on some of the most powerful models on the market. We're talking about rarities like the Ariel Nomad 2, the second generation of the vehicle launched in 2015.

Ariel Motor Company's new creation is halfway between a circuit competition vehicle and an off-road vehicle. The Ariel Nomad 2 features a compact design with exposed innards, stronger body panels and an excellent power-to-weight ratio based on the Ford Focus ST engine. It was designed from scratch.

The British company claims that the Ariel Nomad 2 retains only three parts from its predecessor. The tubular chassis is thicker, but has a simpler design, improving torsional rigidity by 60%. Meanwhile, the double-wishbone suspension comes standard with aluminum shock absorbers and K-Tech coil springs, as well as dual-speed Eibach springs.

Optionally, these can be replaced with Ohlins TTX adjustable shock absorbers or Bilstein two-stage shock absorbers with remote reservoirs. It also improves the braking equipment, which is 40% larger. Brakes include front/rear tilt adjustment and hydraulic handbrake. To put a smile on the driver's face, count on Launch Control.

Of course, there is no shortage of traction control and ABS either. As standard and, depending on the type of use, it is offered with a wide range of 16 or 18 inch wheels and tires. Likewise, there are more than 100 options available. Production takes place at the Ariel factory near Crewkerne, in Somerset, UK, and each example is built by a technician.

As icing on the cake we have the 2.3-liter EcoBoost turbo engine from the Ford Focus ST. This replaces the Honda engine of its predecessor, as was already the case in the Ariel Nomad R. It develops 309 hp and 518 Nm of maximum torque thanks to slight adjustments to the ECU. Thanks to specific mapping, the new Nomad has three selectable power settings.

The mid-engine features a new air intake system, a larger radiator and dual air filtration to protect the intercooler from off-road debris. Power is transmitted to the rear wheels via a 6-speed manual transmission or a 6-speed Quaife sequential gearbox.

It is assisted by a limited slip differential. Finally, the fuel tank was increased to 70 liters, providing more than 850 km of autonomy. According to the company, its new model accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.5 seconds, with a maximum speed limited to 216 km/h.

Autonews