1998 Lotus 340 R vs. 1996 Proton 400
To start off, 1998 Lotus 340 R is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Proton 400. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Proton 400 would be higher. At 1,795 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Lotus 340 R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Lotus 340 R (190 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 116 more horse power than 1996 Proton 400. (74 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Lotus 340 R should accelerate faster than 1996 Proton 400. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Proton 400 weights approximately 295 kg more than 1998 Lotus 340 R.
Because 1998 Lotus 340 R 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 Lotus 340 R. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1998 Lotus 340 R (198 Nm) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Proton 400. (108 Nm). This means 1998 Lotus 340 R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Proton 400.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Lotus 340 R | 1996 Proton 400 | |
| Make | Lotus | Proton |
| Model | 340 R | 400 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1795 cc | 1299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 198 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 675 kg | 970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3510 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1130 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2510 mm |
