1996 Proton 300 vs. 1983 Westfield ZEI
To start off, 1996 Proton 300 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Westfield ZEI. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Westfield ZEI would be higher. At 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Westfield ZEI is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Westfield ZEI (217 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 129 more horse power than 1996 Proton 300. (88 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1983 Westfield ZEI should accelerate faster than 1996 Proton 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Proton 300 weights approximately 315 kg more than 1983 Westfield ZEI.
Because 1983 Westfield ZEI 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 1983 Westfield ZEI. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1983 Westfield ZEI (292 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 166 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Proton 300. (126 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1983 Westfield ZEI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Proton 300.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Proton 300 | 1983 Westfield ZEI | |
| Make | Proton | Westfield |
| Model | 300 | ZEI |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1983 |
| Engine Size | 1468 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 126 Nm | 292 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1040 kg | 725 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 3550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1570 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1060 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2340 mm |
