2003 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1999 Proton Persona

To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Proton Persona. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Proton Persona would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (493 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 419 more horse power than 1999 Proton Persona. (74 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1999 Proton Persona. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1100 kg more than 1999 Proton Persona. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2003 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (800 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 689 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Proton Persona. (111 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Proton Persona. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1999 Proton Persona has manual transmission. 1999 Proton Persona will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2003 Mercedes-Benz S 1999 Proton Persona
Make Mercedes-Benz Proton
Model S Persona
Year Released 2003 1999
Body Type Sedan Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 5513 cc 1299 cc
Engine Cylinders 12 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Valves per Cylinder 3 valves 3 valves
Horse Power 493 HP 74 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 800 Nm 111 Nm
Torque RPM 1800 RPM 3000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 2060 kg 960 kg
Vehicle Length 5170 mm 4370 mm
Vehicle Width 1860 mm 1690 mm
Vehicle Height 1460 mm 1390 mm
Wheelbase Size 3090 mm 2510 mm