2003 Fiat Panda vs. 1997 Proton 400
To start off, 2003 Fiat Panda is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Proton 400. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Proton 400 would be higher. At 1,299 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Proton 400 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Proton 400 (74 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2003 Fiat Panda. (69 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Proton 400 should accelerate faster than 2003 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Proton 400 weights approximately 129 kg more than 2003 Fiat Panda. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Fiat Panda (144 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Proton 400. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Fiat Panda will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Proton 400.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Fiat Panda | 1997 Proton 400 | |
| Make | Fiat | Proton |
| Model | Panda | 400 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1251 cc | 1299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 861 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3540 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2510 mm |
