1997 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1996 Proton 400
To start off, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 4,971 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL (315 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 226 more horse power than 1996 Proton 400. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1996 Proton 400. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 694 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 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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 Mercedes-Benz SL (468 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 342 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Proton 400. (126 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Proton 400.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1996 Proton 400 | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Proton |
Model | SL | 400 |
Year Released | 1997 | 1996 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4971 cc | 1466 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 315 HP | 89 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 468 Nm | 126 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1769 kg | 1075 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4370 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1390 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2510 mm |