1997 Proton 300 vs. 2012 Ford F-150
To start off, 2012 Ford F-150 is newer by 15 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 5,000 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Ford F-150 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Ford F-150 (360 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 285 more horse power than 1997 Proton 300. (75 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Ford F-150 should accelerate faster than 1997 Proton 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Ford F-150 weights approximately 1348 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 2012 Ford F-150 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 2012 Ford F-150. 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, 2012 Ford F-150 (515 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 407 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Proton 300. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Ford F-150 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Proton 300. 2012 Ford F-150 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. 2012 Ford F-150 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Proton 300 | 2012 Ford F-150 | |
| Make | Proton | Ford |
| Model | 300 | F-150 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 5000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 360 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 515 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Flex Fuel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1035 kg | 2383 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 5890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 2012 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1900 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 3670 mm |
