2008 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2003 Proton 400
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 5 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 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C (228 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 154 more horse power than 2003 Proton 400. (74 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2003 Proton 400. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 270 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 2008 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 2008 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C (300 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 192 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Proton 400. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Proton 400.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz C | 2003 Proton 400 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Proton |
| Model | C | 400 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 1299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2510 mm |
