1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 vs. 2005 Proton 400
To start off, 2005 Proton 400 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 would be higher. At 2,298 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 (134 HP) has 60 more horse power than 2005 Proton 400. (74 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 should accelerate faster than 2005 Proton 400. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 weights approximately 388 kg more than 2005 Proton 400. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 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 Mercedes-Benz 230. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 (205 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Proton 400. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Proton 400.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 | 2005 Proton 400 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Proton |
| Model | 230 | 400 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2298 cc | 1299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 205 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 972 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2510 mm |
