1998 Proton 300 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLC
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLC 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLC is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLC (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 193 more horse power than 1998 Proton 300. (75 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLC should accelerate faster than 1998 Proton 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLC weights approximately 1792 kg more than 1998 Proton 300. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLC 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 Mercedes-Benz CLC. 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 Mercedes-Benz CLC (351 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 243 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Proton 300. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLC will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Proton 300. 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLC has automatic transmission and 1998 Proton 300 has manual transmission. 1998 Proton 300 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLC will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Proton 300 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLC | |
| Make | Proton | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 300 | CLC |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 351 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1038 kg | 2830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2720 mm |
