2002 Lexus IS vs. 1997 Proton 300
To start off, 2002 Lexus IS is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Proton 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Proton 300 would be higher. At 2,999 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Lexus IS (201 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 1997 Proton 300. (75 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1997 Proton 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Lexus IS weights approximately 505 kg more than 1997 Proton 300. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Lexus IS 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 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Proton 300, 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 Lexus IS (296 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 188 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Proton 300. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Proton 300. 2002 Lexus IS has automatic transmission and 1997 Proton 300 has manual transmission. 1997 Proton 300 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Lexus IS | 1997 Proton 300 | |
| Make | Lexus | Proton |
| Model | IS | 300 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2999 cc | 1299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 75 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 296 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 1035 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2450 mm |
