Proton S70 vs BMW i4
Head-to-head specifications
| Metric | Proton S70 | BMW i4 | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Max power (hp) | 181 | 340 | -46.8% |
| Max torque (Nm) | 290 | 430 | -32.6% |
| NCAP safety | 5★ (ASEAN NCAP) | 5★ (Euro NCAP) | — |
| Fuel type | Petrol | Electric | — |
| Transmission | 7DCT | Automatic | — |
| Price (USD est.) | $16,758 | $77,544 | -78.4% |
- BMW i4 makes about 47% more power (340 vs 181 hp).
- Their economy figures use different measures (Petrol vs Electric), so compare running costs in your local fuel and electricity prices rather than head-to-head.
- Prices are converted to USD from their home markets (Malaysia and EU); taxes and availability differ by country.
Verdict: S70 or i4?
Proton S70 advantages
- Affordability (+78%)
BMW i4 advantages
- Engine power (+47%)
- Pulling torque (+33%)
Which should you choose?
- Choose the Proton S70 if you want the lower upfront cost.
- Choose the BMW i4 if you want stronger performance and overtaking confidence.
Value for money
Proton S70 delivers more horsepower per dollar, making it the better value of the two at their listed prices.
Proton S70 vs BMW i4: which should you choose?
Proton S70 (2026 1.5 i-GT Premium (MC1)) — petrol sedan with 181 hp and 290 Nm, rated at 17.5 km/L, 5-star ASEAN NCAP safety; priced near $16,758 in the Malaysia market.
BMW i4 (2026 i4 eDrive40 M Sport) — electric sedan with 340 hp and 430 Nm, rated at 16.1 kWh/100km, 5-star Euro NCAP safety; priced near $77,544 in the EU market.
Proton S70 vs BMW i4: BMW i4 is more powerful. BMW i4 makes about 47% more power (340 vs 181 hp). Their economy figures use different measures (Petrol vs Electric), so compare running costs in your local fuel and electricity prices rather than head-to-head.
Performance
The BMW i4 is the more powerful, at 340 hp against 181 hp, with 430 Nm of torque on tap. Its electric drivetrain pairs with a automatic transmission.
Running costs
These cars use different energy types (Petrol vs Electric), so compare cost per kilometre at your local fuel and electricity prices rather than a single economy number.
Safety
Proton S70 is rated 5 stars by ASEAN NCAP and BMW i4 5 stars by Euro NCAP. Different NCAP programmes use different protocols, so same-programme comparisons are the most reliable.
Price and value
The Proton S70 lists lower at about $16,758 (USD-converted from the Malaysia market). Factor in insurance, fuel or charging, taxes and resale — not just the sticker price.
The verdict
Both are credible choices in the car comparison space; the specification table above lays out every metric so you can weigh the trade-offs that matter to you. Pick the one whose strengths line up with how you will actually use it.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Proton S70 better than the BMW i4?
BMW i4 takes the overall edge, though Proton S70 wins in specific areas worth weighing. BMW i4 makes about 47% more power (340 vs 181 hp).
What is the main difference between the Proton S70 and the BMW i4?
BMW i4 makes about 47% more power (340 vs 181 hp). Their economy figures use different measures (Petrol vs Electric), so compare running costs in your local fuel and electricity prices rather than head-to-head.
Which is better value?
Proton S70 delivers more horsepower per dollar, making it the better value of the two at their listed prices.
Which should I choose?
Choose the Proton S70 if you want the lower upfront cost. Choose the BMW i4 if you want stronger performance and overtaking confidence.
Methodology
Cars are compared on manufacturer-rated maximum power and torque, certified fuel economy (km/L, converted from each market's test cycle: EPA, WLTP, CLTC, JC08/WLTC, ARAI) or EV energy use (kWh/100km), official NCAP crash-test ratings from the model's home-market programme, and list prices converted to USD at recent exchange rates. Each model shows its newest listed year and its highest-priority market trim. Test cycles differ between regions, so cross-market economy figures are directional rather than exact; prices exclude local taxes and incentives.