1998 Proton 400 vs. 2009 BMW 530
To start off, 2009 BMW 530 is newer by 11 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 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 530 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 530 (232 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 158 more horse power than 1998 Proton 400. (74 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 530 should accelerate faster than 1998 Proton 400. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 530 weights approximately 672 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 2009 BMW 530 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 2009 BMW 530. 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, 2009 BMW 530 (500 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 392 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Proton 400. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 530 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Proton 400. 2009 BMW 530 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. 2009 BMW 530 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Proton 400 | 2009 BMW 530 | |
| Make | Proton | BMW |
| Model | 400 | 530 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 2993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 500 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 996 kg | 1668 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2890 mm |
