The 525bhp ‘4RR’ is the most powerful Ariel Atom ever

This here is the Ariel Atom ‘4RR’, conceived to mark 25 years of the pint-sized sports car. It’s also the most powerful Atom ever created, automatically christening it as the new Final Boss of Scaffolding. Somehow, it’s road-legal.

Based on the already bonkers 4R, the track-focused 4RR uses a bespoke version of the same turbocharged 2.0-litre four-pot (plugged from the Honda Civic Type R). Though thanks to revised components, including optimised fuel and oil systems, the needle has been flicked right up to 525bhp and 406lb ft. Good lord.

No confirmation as yet of acceleration and top speed figures, but given this thing has an extra 125bhp over a 'regular' 4R, it’ll likely better the 0-62mph time (2.7s) and stretch the 170mph vmax even further.

And would you just look at it? The body is peppered with sharp edges to profit as much aero as possible from the F1-style splitter and slender rear wing. No wonder Ariel's aiming this thing at 'the most serious track drivers'.

There’s also a gopping great intake behind the seats, and even bigger ones ahead of the rear wheel arches. Because that's what the Atom's always lacked... exposure to air. Ahem.

Pricing for the 4RR will be revealed later this year, but Ariel says just 25 units will be built. Best act fast.