2009 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 1997 Proton 300
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Proton 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Proton 300 would be higher. At 5,461 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 307 more horse power than 1997 Proton 300. (75 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1997 Proton 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 290 kg more than 1997 Proton 300. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz E 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 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Proton 300, 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 Mercedes-Benz E (531 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 423 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Proton 300. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Proton 300. 2009 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 1997 Proton 300 has manual transmission. 1997 Proton 300 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz E | 1997 Proton 300 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Proton |
| Model | E | 300 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5461 cc | 1299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 382 HP | 75 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 531 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1325 kg | 1035 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2450 mm |
