1998 Proton 400 vs. 1980 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 1998 Proton 400 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Proton 400 (74 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. (53 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Proton 400 should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Proton 400 weights approximately 105 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Proton 400 (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. (100 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 1998 Proton 400 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Proton 400 | 1980 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Proton | Volkswagen |
| Model | 400 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 970 kg | 865 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2410 mm |
