2003 Chevrolet Astro vs. 1996 Proton 400
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Astro is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Proton 400. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Proton 400 would be higher. At 4,292 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet Astro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet Astro (187 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 73 more horse power than 1996 Proton 400. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Astro should accelerate faster than 1996 Proton 400. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Astro weights approximately 885 kg more than 1996 Proton 400. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Chevrolet Astro 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 2003 Chevrolet Astro. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 2003 Chevrolet Astro (339 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 179 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Proton 400. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Astro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Proton 400.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chevrolet Astro | 1996 Proton 400 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Proton |
| Model | Astro | 400 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4292 cc | 1834 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 187 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 339 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1950 kg | 1065 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1980 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1910 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2510 mm |
