2006 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2003 Proton 400
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 3 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (141 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 2003 Proton 400. (74 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2003 Proton 400. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 725 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.
Because 2006 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Proton 400, 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (221 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 113 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Proton 400. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Proton 400. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C 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. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz C | 2003 Proton 400 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Proton |
| Model | C | 400 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 221 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1695 kg | 970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2510 mm |
