2007 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1996 Proton 400
To start off, 2007 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Proton 400. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Proton 400 would be higher. At 1,308 cc, 2007 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 1996 Proton 400. (74 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1996 Proton 400. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 430 kg more than 1996 Proton 400. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 Mazda RX-8 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 2007 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 2007 Mazda RX-8 (221 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 113 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Proton 400. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Proton 400.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mazda RX-8 | 1996 Proton 400 | |
| Make | Mazda | Proton |
| Model | RX-8 | 400 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1299 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 221 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1420 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2510 mm |
