1996 Proton 400 vs. 2013 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 17 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen Golf (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1996 Proton 400. (74 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1996 Proton 400. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 388 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, 2013 Volkswagen Golf (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 212 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Proton 400. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Proton 400.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Proton 400 | 2013 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Proton | Volkswagen |
| Model | 400 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 970 kg | 1358 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4201 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2578 mm |
