2003 Proton 400 vs. 2005 Smart ForFour
To start off, 2005 Smart ForFour is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Proton 400. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Proton 400 would be higher. At 1,332 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Smart ForFour is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Smart ForFour (94 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2003 Proton 400. (74 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Smart ForFour should accelerate faster than 2003 Proton 400.
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, 2005 Smart ForFour (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Proton 400. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Smart ForFour will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Proton 400. 2005 Smart ForFour has automatic transmission and 2003 Proton 400 has manual transmission. 2003 Proton 400 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Smart ForFour will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Proton 400 | 2005 Smart ForFour | |
| Make | Proton | Smart |
| Model | 400 | ForFour |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1332 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 970 kg | 970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 3760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2510 mm |
