1998 Proton 400 vs. 2010 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2010 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 12 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2010 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mercedes-Benz S (295 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 221 more horse power than 1998 Proton 400. (74 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1998 Proton 400. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 995 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 2010 Mercedes-Benz S 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 2010 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 2010 Mercedes-Benz S (385 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 277 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Proton 400. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2010 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Proton 400. 2010 Mercedes-Benz S 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. 2010 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Proton 400 | 2010 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Proton | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 400 | S |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 295 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 385 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 996 kg | 1991 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 5245 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1872 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 3165 mm |
