1994 Proton Persona I Compact Dimensions, Size & Specs

The curb weight of the Proton Persona 300 Compact varies from about 960 kg to 1190 kg (2116 to 2623 lbs), which is relatively lightweight for its class. The maximum gross weight ranges between 1365 kg and 1568 kg (3009 to 3457 lbs). This moderate weight allows for acceptable performance and nimble handling while helping to maintain decent fuel economy. The relatively low curb weight helps improve acceleration and braking, while the maximum weight capacity assures the car can carry passengers and cargo safely within limits.

The luggage capacity of the Proton Persona 300 Compact offers 240 liters (approximately 8.5 cubic feet) with the rear seats in the upright position. When the rear seats are folded down, the luggage compartment expands significantly to 1072 liters (about 37.8 cubic feet). This versatility allows for carrying larger or bulkier items when needed, which is particularly useful for a compact hatchback, balancing everyday convenience with occasional larger load needs.

This generation of the Proton Persona 300 Compact can accommodate rim sizes ranging from 13 inches to 16 inches, specifically 13, 14, and 16-inch rims. The tire options for these rims include 175/70 R13, 185/60 R14, and 205/45 R16. Choosing the appropriate rim and tire size can affect ride comfort, handling characteristics, and overall driving experience, so owners often select sizes based on personal preferences or availability.

Yes, the Proton Persona 300 Compact fits comfortably into a standard garage. With a length of approximately 3990-3995 mm (157.1-157.3 inches) and a width up to about 1710 mm (67.3 inches), it is smaller than most garages, which generally allow for a length of around 5,000 mm (196.9 inches) or more and a width of about 2,500 mm (98.4 inches). Its compact size makes parking and maneuvering in typical residential garages easy for drivers.

The Proton Persona 300 Compact's Persona I generation improved in compactness and practical design compared to its predecessors. While exact predecessor dimensions vary depending on the specific older models, Persona I focused on providing an efficient hatchback form with slightly more refined dimensions for urban use—maintaining a length just under 4 meters, which helped it achieve improved maneuverability and parking ease compared to some earlier, larger sedans or hatchbacks by Proton. Overall, Persona I combined a practical footprint with better space utilization.

When compared to other 1990s compact hatchbacks, the Proton Persona 300 Compact is fairly typical in size. Models like the Honda Civic hatchback or Toyota Corolla hatchback from the same era usually measured slightly longer or wider by a few centimeters but shared similar dimensions in the 3.9 to 4.1-meter range in length and width close to 1.7 meters. Persona 300’s relatively lightweight and moderate dimensions made it competitive in the compact market, appealing to drivers seeking economy and practicality without sacrificing interior space or luggage capacity.

The Proton Persona 300 Compact's interior was designed to maximize space efficiency within a compact external footprint. It comfortably seats four to five passengers with adequate headroom and legroom for a vehicle in this size class. The hatchback layout adds to rear passenger comfort by allowing more flexible cargo and seating arrangements. While the interior design reflects 1990s modes with straightforward controls and basic materials, the layout remains practical and suitable for daily drives and small families needing a balance of passenger comfort and cargo space.

The Proton Persona 300 Compact was generally equipped with modestly powered engines aimed at efficiency and reliability rather than outright performance. Most models featured small 1.3 to 1.5-liter four-cylinder engines, producing power outputs sufficient for city and highway driving without excessive fuel consumption or maintenance costs. This focus on practicality made the Persona popular with drivers looking for affordable, dependable transportation in the compact hatchback segment during its production years from 1994 to 2006.

The maximum weight capacity of the Proton Persona 300 Compact ranges from 1365 kg to 1568 kg (about 3009 to 3457 lbs), indicating the total allowable weight including passengers, cargo, and the vehicle itself. Staying within this weight limit ensures safe handling and braking distances, preserving vehicle integrity and occupant safety. The set limits guide owners on how much load they can safely carry, which is crucial for avoiding excessive wear on suspension components and maintaining steering control, enhancing both usability and overall safety.