2002 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1996 Proton Persona
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Proton Persona. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Proton Persona would be higher. At 3,997 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (246 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 172 more horse power than 1996 Proton Persona. (74 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1996 Proton Persona. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1030 kg more than 1996 Proton Persona. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Mercedes-Benz S 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 S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Proton Persona, 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 S (560 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 450 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Proton Persona. (110 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Proton Persona. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1996 Proton Persona has manual transmission. 1996 Proton Persona will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | 1996 Proton Persona | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Proton |
| Model | S | Persona |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3997 cc | 1299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 246 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 560 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1700 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1990 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2970 mm | 2510 mm |
