1997 Proton 400 vs. 1986 Skoda L
To start off, 1997 Proton 400 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Skoda L. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Skoda L would be higher. At 1,299 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Proton 400 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Proton 400 (74 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1986 Skoda L. (57 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Proton 400 should accelerate faster than 1986 Skoda L. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Proton 400 weights approximately 105 kg more than 1986 Skoda L. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 Skoda L 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 1986 Skoda L. 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 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Skoda L. (90 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 1997 Proton 400 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Skoda L.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Proton 400 | 1986 Skoda L | |
| Make | Proton | Skoda |
| Model | 400 | L |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1221 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 57 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 90 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 885 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2410 mm |
