1997 Proton 300 vs. 1978 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1997 Proton 300 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,299 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Proton 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Proton 300 (75 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Proton 300 should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Proton 300 weights approximately 155 kg more than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. 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, 1997 Proton 300 (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. (95 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1997 Proton 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Proton 300 | 1978 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Proton | Volkswagen |
| Model | 300 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1035 kg | 880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2480 mm |
