2005 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1997 Proton 300
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Proton 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Proton 300 would be higher. At 3,997 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S (248 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 173 more horse power than 1997 Proton 300. (75 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1997 Proton 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1005 kg more than 1997 Proton 300. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S (560 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 452 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Proton 300. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Proton 300. 2005 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1997 Proton 300 has manual transmission. 1997 Proton 300 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz S | 1997 Proton 300 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Proton |
| Model | S | 300 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3997 cc | 1299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 248 HP | 75 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 560 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1700 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 2040 kg | 1035 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5160 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2970 mm | 2450 mm |
