1997 Proton 400 vs. 2012 Lotus Exige
To start off, 2012 Lotus Exige 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 1,800 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Lotus Exige is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Lotus Exige (240 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 166 more horse power than 1997 Proton 400. (74 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Lotus Exige should accelerate faster than 1997 Proton 400. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Proton 400 weights approximately 48 kg more than 2012 Lotus Exige.
Because 2012 Lotus Exige 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 Lotus Exige. 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, 2012 Lotus Exige (230 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 122 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Proton 400. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Lotus Exige will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Proton 400.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Proton 400 | 2012 Lotus Exige | |
Make | Proton | Lotus |
Model | 400 | Exige |
Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Middle |
Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1800 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 74 HP | 240 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 8000 RPM |
Torque | 108 Nm | 230 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 942 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 3797 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1727 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1158 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2299 mm |