1987 Lada Samara vs. 2003 Proton 400
To start off, 2003 Proton 400 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Lada Samara. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Lada Samara would be higher. At 1,458 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Lada Samara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 74 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Proton 400 weights approximately 65 kg more than 1987 Lada Samara.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1987 Lada Samara (119 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Proton 400. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1987 Lada Samara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Proton 400.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Lada Samara | 2003 Proton 400 | |
| Make | Lada | Proton |
| Model | Samara | 400 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1458 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 119 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 925 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4010 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2510 mm |
