1999 Lotus M250 vs. 1997 Proton 400
To start off, 1999 Lotus M250 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Proton 400. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Proton 400 would be higher. At 2,946 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Lotus M250 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Lotus M250 (247 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 173 more horse power than 1997 Proton 400. (74 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Lotus M250 should accelerate faster than 1997 Proton 400. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Proton 400 weights approximately 20 kg more than 1999 Lotus M250.
Because 1999 Lotus M250 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 1999 Lotus M250. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 1999 Lotus M250 (321 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 213 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Proton 400. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 Lotus M250 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Proton 400.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Lotus M250 | 1997 Proton 400 | |
| Make | Lotus | Proton |
| Model | M250 | 400 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2946 cc | 1299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 321 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4140 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1390 mm |
