1997 Proton 300 vs. 2011 BMW 125
To start off, 2011 BMW 125 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Proton 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Proton 300 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 BMW 125 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 125 (215 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 140 more horse power than 1997 Proton 300. (75 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 125 should accelerate faster than 1997 Proton 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW 125 weights approximately 490 kg more than 1997 Proton 300. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 BMW 125 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 125. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Proton 300, 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 125 (270 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 162 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Proton 300. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 125 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Proton 300. 2011 BMW 125 has automatic transmission and 1997 Proton 300 has manual transmission. 1997 Proton 300 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 BMW 125 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Proton 300 | 2011 BMW 125 | |
| Make | Proton | BMW |
| Model | 300 | 125 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1035 kg | 1525 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2670 mm |
