1997 Proton 400 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 400. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Proton 400 would be higher. At 1,299 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Proton 400 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Polo (89 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1997 Proton 400. (74 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Polo should accelerate faster than 1997 Proton 400. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 167 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 Volkswagen Polo (230 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 122 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Proton 400. (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 400.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Proton 400 | 2012 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Proton | Volkswagen |
| Model | 400 | 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 | 74 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 1157 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1682 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1462 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2470 mm |
