1978 Lada 1200 vs. 1996 Proton 400
To start off, 1996 Proton 400 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Lada 1200. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Lada 1200 would be higher. At 1,466 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Proton 400 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Proton 400 (89 HP) has 30 more horse power than 1978 Lada 1200. (59 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Proton 400 should accelerate faster than 1978 Lada 1200. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Proton 400 weights approximately 130 kg more than 1978 Lada 1200. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Lada 1200 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 1978 Lada 1200. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1996 Proton 400 (126 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Lada 1200. (85 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1996 Proton 400 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Lada 1200.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Lada 1200 | 1996 Proton 400 | |
Make | Lada | Proton |
Model | 1200 | 400 |
Year Released | 1978 | 1996 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1198 cc | 1466 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
Horse Power | 59 HP | 89 HP |
Torque | 85 Nm | 126 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 945 kg | 1075 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4080 mm | 4370 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1390 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2510 mm |