1997 Proton 400 vs. 1964 Renault 8
To start off, 1997 Proton 400 is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1964 Renault 8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1964 Renault 8 would be higher. At 1,299 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Proton 400 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1964 Renault 8 (95 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1997 Proton 400. (74 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1964 Renault 8 should accelerate faster than 1997 Proton 400. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Proton 400 weights approximately 117 kg more than 1964 Renault 8.
Because 1964 Renault 8 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 1964 Renault 8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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 Proton 400 (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1964 Renault 8. (99 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1997 Proton 400 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1964 Renault 8.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Proton 400 | 1964 Renault 8 | |
| Make | Proton | Renault |
| Model | 400 | 8 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1964 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1108 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 95 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 99 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 970 kg | 853 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1490 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2280 mm |
