2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK vs. 1997 Proton 300
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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 2,596 cc (5 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK (161 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1997 Proton 300. (75 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 1997 Proton 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 610 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 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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 Mercedes-Benz CLK. 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 Mercedes-Benz CLK (400 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 292 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Proton 300. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Proton 300.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK | 1997 Proton 300 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Proton |
| Model | CLK | 300 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2596 cc | 1299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 75 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1645 kg | 1035 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2450 mm |
