1987 Proton Saloon vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Proton Saloon. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Proton Saloon would be higher. At 1,899 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (113 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1987 Proton Saloon. (67 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1987 Proton Saloon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 407 kg more than 1987 Proton Saloon. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (172 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Proton Saloon. (102 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Proton Saloon.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Proton Saloon | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Proton | Volkswagen |
| Model | Saloon | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1899 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 924 kg | 1331 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2390 mm | 2470 mm |
