2002 Lotus Elise vs. 2003 Proton 400
To start off, 2003 Proton 400 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Lotus Elise. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Lotus Elise would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Lotus Elise (134 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 2003 Proton 400. (74 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 2003 Proton 400. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Proton 400 weights approximately 234 kg more than 2002 Lotus Elise.
Because 2002 Lotus Elise 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 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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 Lotus Elise (175 Nm @ 4850 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Proton 400. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Proton 400.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Lotus Elise | 2003 Proton 400 | |
| Make | Lotus | Proton |
| Model | Elise | 400 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4850 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 756 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2510 mm |
