2003 Proton 400 vs. 2012 Buick LaCrosse
To start off, 2012 Buick LaCrosse is newer by 9 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 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Buick LaCrosse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Buick LaCrosse (303 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 229 more horse power than 2003 Proton 400. (74 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Buick LaCrosse should accelerate faster than 2003 Proton 400. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Buick LaCrosse weights approximately 865 kg more than 2003 Proton 400. 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, 2012 Buick LaCrosse (358 Nm @ 5300 RPM) has 250 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Proton 400. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Buick LaCrosse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Proton 400. 2012 Buick LaCrosse 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. 2012 Buick LaCrosse will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Proton 400 | 2012 Buick LaCrosse | |
| Make | Proton | Buick |
| Model | 400 | LaCrosse |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 303 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 358 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Flex Fuel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 970 kg | 1835 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 5001 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1857 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1504 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2837 mm |
