1996 Proton 400 vs. 1970 Riley 4
To start off, 1996 Proton 400 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Riley 4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Riley 4 would be higher. At 1,622 cc (4 cylinders), 1970 Riley 4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Proton 400 (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1970 Riley 4. (67 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Proton 400 should accelerate faster than 1970 Riley 4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1970 Riley 4 weights approximately 73 kg more than 1996 Proton 400.
Because 1970 Riley 4 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 1970 Riley 4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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 Proton 400 (126 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Riley 4. (120 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1996 Proton 400 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Riley 4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Proton 400 | 1970 Riley 4 | |
| Make | Proton | Riley |
| Model | 400 | 4 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1466 cc | 1622 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 67 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 126 Nm | 120 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1075 kg | 1148 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2530 mm |
