1997 Honda NSX vs. 1996 Proton 400
To start off, 1997 Honda NSX is newer by 1 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 3,179 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Honda NSX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Honda NSX (290 HP) has 223 more horse power than 1996 Proton 400. (67 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Honda NSX should accelerate faster than 1996 Proton 400. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Honda NSX weights approximately 255 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 1997 Honda NSX 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 1997 Honda NSX. 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, 1997 Honda NSX (311 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 188 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Proton 400. (123 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Honda NSX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Proton 400.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Honda NSX | 1996 Proton 400 | |
| Make | Honda | Proton |
| Model | NSX | 400 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3179 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 290 HP | 67 HP |
| Torque | 311 Nm | 123 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1370 kg | 1115 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1170 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2510 mm |
