1997 Proton 400 vs. 2012 Kia Soul
To start off, 2012 Kia Soul is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Proton 400. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Proton 400 would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Kia Soul is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Kia Soul (164 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 1997 Proton 400. (74 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Kia Soul should accelerate faster than 1997 Proton 400. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Kia Soul weights approximately 258 kg more than 1997 Proton 400. 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 Kia Soul (200 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Proton 400. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Kia Soul will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Proton 400.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Proton 400 | 2012 Kia Soul | |
| Make | Proton | Kia |
| Model | 400 | Soul |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 164 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 970 kg | 1228 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2550 mm |
