2009 BMW 523 vs. 1996 Proton 400
To start off, 2009 BMW 523 is newer by 13 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 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 523 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 523 (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1996 Proton 400. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 523 should accelerate faster than 1996 Proton 400. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 523 weights approximately 435 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 2009 BMW 523 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 2009 BMW 523. 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, 2009 BMW 523 (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Proton 400. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 523 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Proton 400. 2009 BMW 523 has automatic transmission and 1996 Proton 400 has manual transmission. 1996 Proton 400 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 BMW 523 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 523 | 1996 Proton 400 | |
| Make | BMW | Proton |
| Model | 523 | 400 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1834 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1065 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1470 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2510 mm |
