1998 Proton 400 vs. 2008 BMW 320
To start off, 2008 BMW 320 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Proton 400. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Proton 400 would be higher. At 2,171 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 320 (168 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 1998 Proton 400. (74 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1998 Proton 400. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 320 weights approximately 474 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.
Because 2008 BMW 320 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 2008 BMW 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 2008 BMW 320 (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Proton 400. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Proton 400. 2008 BMW 320 has automatic transmission and 1998 Proton 400 has manual transmission. 1998 Proton 400 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW 320 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Proton 400 | 2008 BMW 320 | |
| Make | Proton | BMW |
| Model | 400 | 320 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 2171 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 996 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2730 mm |
