1979 Isuzu 117 vs. 2003 Proton 300
To start off, 2003 Proton 300 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Isuzu 117. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Isuzu 117 would be higher. At 2,236 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Isuzu 117 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Proton 300 (75 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1979 Isuzu 117. (72 HP @ 4300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Proton 300 should accelerate faster than 1979 Isuzu 117. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Isuzu 117 weights approximately 150 kg more than 2003 Proton 300.
Because 1979 Isuzu 117 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 1979 Isuzu 117. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Proton 300, 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, 1979 Isuzu 117 (139 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Proton 300. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1979 Isuzu 117 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Proton 300.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Isuzu 117 | 2003 Proton 300 | |
| Make | Isuzu | Proton |
| Model | 117 | 300 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2236 cc | 1299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 75 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 139 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1185 kg | 1035 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2450 mm |
