2009 Audi A3 vs. 1997 Proton 400
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Proton 400. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Proton 400 would be higher. At 1,968 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1997 Proton 400. (74 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Proton 400. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Proton 400 weights approximately 95 kg more than 2009 Audi A3.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2009 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 212 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Proton 400. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Proton 400.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 1997 Proton 400 | |
| Make | Audi | Proton |
| Model | A3 | 400 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 1299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 895 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2510 mm |
