1998 Proton 400 vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 15 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 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2013 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mercedes-Benz CLS (511 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 437 more horse power than 1998 Proton 400. (74 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 1998 Proton 400. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 874 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 2013 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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 2013 Mercedes-Benz CLS. 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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz CLS (700 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 592 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Proton 400. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2013 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Proton 400.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Proton 400 | 2013 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
| Make | Proton | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 400 | CLS |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | W |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 511 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Vehicle Weight | 996 kg | 1870 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4996 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 2075 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1406 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2874 mm |
