1996 Proton 400 vs. 2001 Saturn SC
To start off, 2001 Saturn SC is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Proton 400. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Proton 400 would be higher. At 1,900 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Saturn SC is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Saturn SC (100 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1996 Proton 400. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Saturn SC should accelerate faster than 1996 Proton 400. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Saturn SC weights approximately 65 kg more than 1996 Proton 400. 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, 2001 Saturn SC (155 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Proton 400. (126 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2001 Saturn SC will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Proton 400. 2001 Saturn SC has automatic transmission and 1996 Proton 400 has manual transmission. 1996 Proton 400 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Saturn SC will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Proton 400 | 2001 Saturn SC | |
| Make | Proton | Saturn |
| Model | 400 | SC |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1468 cc | 1900 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 126 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1005 kg | 1070 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2610 mm |
