2004 Caterham 7 vs. 1987 Proton Saloon
To start off, 2004 Caterham 7 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Proton Saloon. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Proton Saloon would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Caterham 7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Caterham 7 (251 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 184 more horse power than 1987 Proton Saloon. (67 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 1987 Proton Saloon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Proton Saloon weights approximately 454 kg more than 2004 Caterham 7.
Because 2004 Caterham 7 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 2004 Caterham 7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Proton Saloon, 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, 2004 Caterham 7 (258 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 156 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Proton Saloon. (102 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Caterham 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Proton Saloon.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Caterham 7 | 1987 Proton Saloon | |
| Make | Caterham | Proton |
| Model | 7 | Saloon |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 251 HP | 67 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 258 Nm | 102 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 470 kg | 924 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2390 mm |
