1996 Lotus Elan vs. 2001 Proton 400
To start off, 2001 Proton 400 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 2001 Proton 400. (74 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2001 Proton 400. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Lotus Elan weights approximately 30 kg more than 2001 Proton 400. 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, 1996 Lotus Elan (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Proton 400. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Proton 400.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Lotus Elan | 2001 Proton 400 | |
| Make | Lotus | Proton |
| Model | Elan | 400 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2510 mm |
