2005 Proton 300 vs. 2010 Lotus Exige
To start off, 2010 Lotus Exige is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Proton 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Proton 300 would be higher. At 1,800 cc (8 cylinders), 2010 Lotus Exige is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Lotus Exige (425 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 350 more horse power than 2005 Proton 300. (75 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Lotus Exige should accelerate faster than 2005 Proton 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Lotus Exige weights approximately 953 kg more than 2005 Proton 300. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2010 Lotus Exige 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 2010 Lotus Exige. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2010 Lotus Exige (489 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 381 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Proton 300. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2010 Lotus Exige will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Proton 300. 2010 Lotus Exige has automatic transmission and 2005 Proton 300 has manual transmission. 2005 Proton 300 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2010 Lotus Exige will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Proton 300 | 2010 Lotus Exige | |
| Make | Proton | Lotus |
| Model | 300 | Exige |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 425 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 489 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1038 kg | 1991 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 5098 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1895 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1438 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 3063 mm |
