2002 AC Cobra vs. 1998 Proton 400
To start off, 2002 AC Cobra is newer by 4 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 3,506 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 AC Cobra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 AC Cobra (350 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 276 more horse power than 1998 Proton 400. (74 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 AC Cobra should accelerate faster than 1998 Proton 400. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 AC Cobra weights approximately 90 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 2002 AC Cobra 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 2002 AC Cobra. 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, 2002 AC Cobra (400 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 292 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Proton 400. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 AC Cobra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Proton 400.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 AC Cobra | 1998 Proton 400 | |
| Make | AC | Proton |
| Model | Cobra | 400 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3506 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 350 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2510 mm |
