2003 Proton 300 vs. 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA
To start off, 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Proton 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Proton 300 would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA (165 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 2003 Proton 300. (75 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA should accelerate faster than 2003 Proton 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA weights approximately 147 kg more than 2003 Proton 300. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA 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 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Proton 300. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Proton 300.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Proton 300 | 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA | |
| Make | Proton | Mazda |
| Model | 300 | MX-5 MIATA |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1035 kg | 1182 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4032 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1255 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2330 mm |
