2009 Citroen C3 vs. 1996 Proton 400
To start off, 2009 Citroen C3 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 1,834 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Proton 400 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Proton 400 (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 2009 Citroen C3. (108 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Proton 400 should accelerate faster than 2009 Citroen C3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Citroen C3 weights approximately 343 kg more than 1996 Proton 400.
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 Citroen C3 (245 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Proton 400. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Citroen C3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Proton 400.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Citroen C3 | 1996 Proton 400 | |
| Make | Citroen | Proton |
| Model | C3 | 400 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1560 cc | 1834 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1408 kg | 1065 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4080 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2510 mm |
