1996 Proton 400 vs. 2011 BMW Z4
To start off, 2011 BMW Z4 is newer by 15 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 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW Z4 (300 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 226 more horse power than 1996 Proton 400. (74 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1996 Proton 400. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW Z4 weights approximately 620 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 2011 BMW Z4 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 2011 BMW Z4. 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, 2011 BMW Z4 (406 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 298 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Proton 400. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Proton 400.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Proton 400 | 2011 BMW Z4 | |
| Make | Proton | BMW |
| Model | 400 | Z4 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 300 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 406 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 970 kg | 1590 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4239 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1791 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2497 mm |
