2008 Nissan 350Z vs. 1996 Proton 400
To start off, 2008 Nissan 350Z is newer by 12 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 3,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Nissan 350Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Nissan 350Z (306 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 217 more horse power than 1996 Proton 400. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Nissan 350Z should accelerate faster than 1996 Proton 400. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Nissan 350Z weights approximately 465 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 2008 Nissan 350Z 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 Nissan 350Z. 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, 2008 Nissan 350Z (363 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 237 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Proton 400. (126 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Nissan 350Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Proton 400.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Nissan 350Z | 1996 Proton 400 | |
| Make | Nissan | Proton |
| Model | 350Z | 400 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3496 cc | 1466 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 306 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 363 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 1075 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2510 mm |
