1997 Proton 300 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Polo 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 1,299 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Proton 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Polo (178 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 103 more horse power than 1997 Proton 300. (75 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Polo should accelerate faster than 1997 Proton 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 234 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.
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, 2012 Volkswagen Polo (250 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 142 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Proton 300. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Proton 300. 2012 Volkswagen Polo 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 Volkswagen Polo will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Proton 300 | 2012 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Proton | Volkswagen |
| Model | 300 | Polo |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 178 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1035 kg | 1269 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1682 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1462 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2470 mm |
