1968 Fiat 124 vs. 2003 Proton 400
To start off, 2003 Proton 400 is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Fiat 124. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Fiat 124 would be higher. At 1,299 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Proton 400 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Proton 400 (74 HP) has 15 more horse power than 1968 Fiat 124. (59 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Proton 400 should accelerate faster than 1968 Fiat 124. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Proton 400 weights approximately 40 kg more than 1968 Fiat 124. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1968 Fiat 124 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 1968 Fiat 124. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Proton 400 (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Fiat 124. (88 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2003 Proton 400 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Fiat 124.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Fiat 124 | 2003 Proton 400 | |
| Make | Fiat | Proton |
| Model | 124 | 400 |
| Year Released | 1968 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1197 cc | 1299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 88 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2510 mm |
