1982 Mercedes-Benz 500 vs. 2003 Proton 400
To start off, 2003 Proton 400 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Mercedes-Benz 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Mercedes-Benz 500 would be higher. At 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1982 Mercedes-Benz 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1982 Mercedes-Benz 500 (231 HP @ 4750 RPM) has 157 more horse power than 2003 Proton 400. (74 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1982 Mercedes-Benz 500 should accelerate faster than 2003 Proton 400. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Mercedes-Benz 500 weights approximately 620 kg more than 2003 Proton 400. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1982 Mercedes-Benz 500 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 1982 Mercedes-Benz 500. 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, 1982 Mercedes-Benz 500 (405 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 297 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Proton 400. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1982 Mercedes-Benz 500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Proton 400. 1982 Mercedes-Benz 500 has automatic transmission and 2003 Proton 400 has manual transmission. 2003 Proton 400 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1982 Mercedes-Benz 500 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Mercedes-Benz 500 | 2003 Proton 400 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Proton |
| Model | 500 | 400 |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4973 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 231 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4750 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 405 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2510 mm |
