1996 Proton 300 vs. 2004 Vauxhall Astra
To start off, 2004 Vauxhall Astra is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Proton 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Proton 300 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Vauxhall Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Vauxhall Astra (123 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1996 Proton 300. (75 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Vauxhall Astra should accelerate faster than 1996 Proton 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Vauxhall Astra weights approximately 243 kg more than 1996 Proton 300. 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 Vauxhall Astra (173 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Proton 300. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Vauxhall Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Proton 300. 2004 Vauxhall Astra has automatic transmission and 1996 Proton 300 has manual transmission. 1996 Proton 300 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Vauxhall Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Proton 300 | 2004 Vauxhall Astra | |
| Make | Proton | Vauxhall |
| Model | 300 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 173 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1035 kg | 1278 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2620 mm |
