1996 Proton 400 vs. 2012 Aston Martin DB9
To start off, 2012 Aston Martin DB9 is newer by 16 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 5,900 cc (12 cylinders), 2012 Aston Martin DB9 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Aston Martin DB9 (470 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 381 more horse power than 1996 Proton 400. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Aston Martin DB9 should accelerate faster than 1996 Proton 400. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Aston Martin DB9 weights approximately 780 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 2012 Aston Martin DB9 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 2012 Aston Martin DB9. 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, 2012 Aston Martin DB9 (600 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 474 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Proton 400. (126 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Aston Martin DB9 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Proton 400. 2012 Aston Martin DB9 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. 2012 Aston Martin DB9 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Proton 400 | 2012 Aston Martin DB9 | |
| Make | Proton | Aston Martin |
| Model | 400 | DB9 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1466 cc | 5900 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 470 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 126 Nm | 600 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1075 kg | 1855 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4709 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1875 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2746 mm |
