1998 Lotus Elise vs. 2002 Proton 400
To start off, 2002 Proton 400 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Lotus Elise. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Lotus Elise would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Lotus Elise (116 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 2002 Proton 400. (74 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 2002 Proton 400. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Proton 400 weights approximately 291 kg more than 1998 Lotus Elise.
Because 1998 Lotus Elise 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 Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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 Elise (165 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Proton 400. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Proton 400.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Lotus Elise | 2002 Proton 400 | |
Make | Lotus | Proton |
Model | Elise | 400 |
Year Released | 1998 | 2002 |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1299 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
Horse Power | 116 HP | 74 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 165 Nm | 108 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 705 kg | 996 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3730 mm | 4280 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1390 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2510 mm |