1998 Proton 300 vs. 2011 Lotus Exige
To start off, 2011 Lotus Exige is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Proton 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Proton 300 would be higher. At 1,800 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Lotus Exige is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Lotus Exige (240 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 165 more horse power than 1998 Proton 300. (75 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Lotus Exige should accelerate faster than 1998 Proton 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Proton 300 weights approximately 96 kg more than 2011 Lotus Exige.
Because 2011 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 2011 Lotus Exige. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Proton 300, 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, 2011 Lotus Exige (230 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 122 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Proton 300. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 Lotus Exige will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Proton 300.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Proton 300 | 2011 Lotus Exige | |
| Make | Proton | Lotus |
| Model | 300 | Exige |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
| 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 | 75 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 | 1038 kg | 942 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 3797 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1727 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1158 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2299 mm |
