1996 Proton 400 vs. 2012 Nissan Sentra
To start off, 2012 Nissan Sentra 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 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Nissan Sentra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Nissan Sentra (177 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 1996 Proton 400. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Nissan Sentra should accelerate faster than 1996 Proton 400. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Nissan Sentra weights approximately 355 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, 2012 Nissan Sentra (233 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Proton 400. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Nissan Sentra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Proton 400.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Proton 400 | 2012 Nissan Sentra | |
| Make | Proton | Nissan |
| Model | 400 | Sentra |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1834 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 177 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Vehicle Weight | 1065 kg | 1420 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4575 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1791 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1511 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2685 mm |
