1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 vs. 1997 Proton 300
To start off, 1997 Proton 300 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 would be higher. At 4,196 cc (8 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 (219 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 144 more horse power than 1997 Proton 300. (75 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 should accelerate faster than 1997 Proton 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 weights approximately 565 kg more than 1997 Proton 300. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 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 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 (329 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 221 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Proton 300. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Proton 300.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 | 1997 Proton 300 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Proton |
| Model | 420 | 300 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4196 cc | 1299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 219 HP | 75 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 329 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1600 kg | 1035 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2450 mm |
