1998 Proton 400 vs. 1996 Volvo 850
To start off, 1998 Proton 400 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo 850 would be higher. At 1,984 cc (5 cylinders), 1996 Volvo 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volvo 850 (124 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1998 Proton 400. (74 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volvo 850 should accelerate faster than 1998 Proton 400. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volvo 850 weights approximately 394 kg more than 1998 Proton 400. 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, 1996 Volvo 850 (170 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Proton 400. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Volvo 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Proton 400.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Proton 400 | 1996 Volvo 850 | |
| Make | Proton | Volvo |
| Model | 400 | 850 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 996 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2670 mm |
