1996 Proton 400 vs. 2008 BMW 525
To start off, 2008 BMW 525 is newer by 12 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), 2008 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 525 (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 141 more horse power than 1996 Proton 400. (74 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 1996 Proton 400. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 525 weights approximately 580 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 2008 BMW 525 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Proton 400. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 BMW 525 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 BMW 525 (250 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 142 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Proton 400. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Proton 400. 2008 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. 2008 BMW 525 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Proton 400 | 2008 BMW 525 | |
| Make | Proton | BMW |
| Model | 400 | 525 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 970 kg | 1550 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 |
