1961 Jensen 541 vs. 1997 Proton 400
To start off, 1997 Proton 400 is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Jensen 541. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Jensen 541 would be higher. At 3,993 cc (6 cylinders), 1961 Jensen 541 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1961 Jensen 541 (129 HP @ 4100 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1997 Proton 400. (74 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1961 Jensen 541 should accelerate faster than 1997 Proton 400. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 Jensen 541 weights approximately 505 kg more than 1997 Proton 400. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 Jensen 541 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1961 Jensen 541. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Proton 400, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1961 Jensen 541 (310 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 202 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Proton 400. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1961 Jensen 541 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Proton 400.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Jensen 541 | 1997 Proton 400 | |
| Make | Jensen | Proton |
| Model | 541 | 400 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3993 cc | 1299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4100 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1475 kg | 970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2510 mm |
