1996 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2003 Proton 300
To start off, 2003 Proton 300 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,956 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL (375 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 300 more horse power than 2003 Proton 300. (75 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2003 Proton 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1015 kg more than 2003 Proton 300. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL (580 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 472 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Proton 300. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Proton 300. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2003 Proton 300 has manual transmission. 2003 Proton 300 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2003 Proton 300 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Proton |
| Model | SL | 300 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5956 cc | 1299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 375 HP | 75 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 580 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 2050 kg | 1035 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2450 mm |
