2002–2004 Proton Putra Specs & Performance

The Proton Putra brought a sporty coupé character to Proton’s lineup, pairing a low roofline and compact two-door body with styling that stood apart from conventional family cars. Its front-end design, sloping profile, and relatively compact proportions gave it a purposeful appearance, while the four-seat cabin made it suitable for more than occasional weekend drives. Front-wheel drive kept the mechanical layout straightforward, and the separate luggage compartment added everyday usefulness. With its driver-focused character and accessible engineering, the Putra offered an appealing alternative for motorists seeking a distinctive compact coupé.

For the 2002–2004 range, the Proton Putra used a naturally aspirated 1.8-litre, 16-valve DOHC inline-four producing 133 hp at 6,500 rpm and 119 lb-ft of torque at 5,500 rpm. A five-speed manual transmission delivered power to the front wheels. Its reported top speed of 126 mph and 0–60 mph acceleration time of 8.7 seconds gave it lively performance for its era. MacPherson-strut front suspension and multi-link rear suspension supported its handling, while the four-seat cabin and 14.1-cubic-foot luggage compartment preserved useful practicality. This combination of coupé styling, responsive performance, and everyday usability defined the Putra’s appeal.