1996 Proton 400 vs. 2009 BMW 525
To start off, 2009 BMW 525 is newer by 13 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 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 525 (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 1996 Proton 400. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 1996 Proton 400. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 525 weights approximately 621 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.
Because 2009 BMW 525 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 2009 BMW 525. 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, 2009 BMW 525 (250 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Proton 400. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Proton 400. 2009 BMW 525 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. 2009 BMW 525 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Proton 400 | 2009 BMW 525 | |
| Make | Proton | BMW |
| Model | 400 | 525 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1834 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1065 kg | 1686 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2840 mm |
