1997 Proton Saloon vs. 1998 Westfield ZEI
To start off, 1998 Westfield ZEI is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Proton Saloon. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Proton Saloon would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Westfield ZEI is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Westfield ZEI (129 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1997 Proton Saloon. (74 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Westfield ZEI should accelerate faster than 1997 Proton Saloon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Proton Saloon weights approximately 230 kg more than 1998 Westfield ZEI.
Because 1998 Westfield ZEI 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 1998 Westfield ZEI. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Proton Saloon, 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, 1998 Westfield ZEI (162 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Proton Saloon. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Westfield ZEI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Proton Saloon.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Proton Saloon | 1998 Westfield ZEI | |
| Make | Proton | Westfield |
| Model | Saloon | ZEI |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1998 |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 720 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1570 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1060 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2390 mm | 2340 mm |
