1996 Lotus Esprit vs. 1997 Proton 400
To start off, 1997 Proton 400 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Esprit (285 HP) has 211 more horse power than 1997 Proton 400. (74 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1997 Proton 400.
Because 1996 Lotus Esprit 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 1996 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 1996 Lotus Esprit (510 Nm) has 402 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Proton 400. (108 Nm). This means 1996 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Proton 400.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Lotus Esprit | 1997 Proton 400 | |
| Make | Lotus | Proton |
| Model | Esprit | 400 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2174 cc | 1299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 285 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 510 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 2510 mm |
