1981 Austin Marina vs. 1998 Proton Persona
To start off, 1998 Proton Persona is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Austin Marina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Austin Marina would be higher. At 1,297 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Proton Persona is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Proton Persona (74 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1981 Austin Marina. (59 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Proton Persona should accelerate faster than 1981 Austin Marina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Proton Persona weights approximately 80 kg more than 1981 Austin Marina. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Austin Marina 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 1981 Austin Marina. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Proton Persona, 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, 1998 Proton Persona (110 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Austin Marina. (102 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1998 Proton Persona will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Austin Marina.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Austin Marina | 1998 Proton Persona | |
| Make | Austin | Proton |
| Model | Marina | Persona |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1275 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 880 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2510 mm |
