Proton Impian
A budget-focused Malaysian saloon featuring a chassis tuned by Lotus Engineering.
- Power
- 102 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 12.0 s
- Top speed
- 115 mph
About the Proton Impian
The Proton Impian, known as the Waja in its domestic Malaysian market, was the first model designed in-house by Proton. Launched in the UK in 2001, it sought to compete with established European saloons by leveraging Proton's ownership of Lotus to refine its ride and handling characteristics. The 1.6 GLS trim utilised a Mitsubishi-sourced 4G18 engine, prioritising reliability and low running costs over outright performance. While the interior quality lagged behind rivals, the Impian gained a reputation for being surprisingly composed on B-roads due to its Lotus-tuned suspension geometry.
Proton Impian specs
The Proton Impian produces 102 bhp (76 kW) and 140 Nm (103 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 12.0 seconds and has a top speed of 115 mph (185 km/h).
| Make | Proton |
|---|---|
| Model | Impian |
| Trim | 1.6 GLS |
| Years | 2001–2008 |
| Type | Saloon |
| Body style | Saloon |
| Country | Malaysia |
| Engine | 1.6-litre inline-4 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,584 cc (1.6 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 102 bhp (76 kW) at 6,000 rpm |
| Torque | 140 Nm (103 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,500 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 12.0 s |
| Top speed | 115 mph (185 km/h) |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,170 kg (2,579 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 87 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
Proton Impian rarity in CarSpot
The Proton Impian is a Common card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 0 out of 100. Everyday cars you can spot on almost any street. A Common card is worth 10 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Proton Impian fun facts
- The Impian was the first Proton model to be designed and engineered entirely in-house, rather than being a rebadged Mitsubishi.
- Despite its budget positioning, the chassis was developed with significant input from Lotus engineers to improve steering response and ride quality.
- In Malaysia, the model was sold as the Proton Waja, which translates to 'Steel' in Malay, reflecting its improved structural rigidity.

