1991 Mazda 121 vs. 1997 Kia Potentia
To start off, 1997 Kia Potentia is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Kia Potentia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Kia Potentia (138 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1991 Mazda 121. (71 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Kia Potentia should accelerate faster than 1991 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Kia Potentia weights approximately 645 kg more than 1991 Mazda 121. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Kia Potentia 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 1997 Kia Potentia. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 Mazda 121, 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, 1997 Kia Potentia (182 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Mazda 121. (104 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 1997 Kia Potentia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Mazda 121 | 1997 Kia Potentia | |
| Make | Mazda | Kia |
| Model | 121 | Potentia |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1322 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 182 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 71 mm | 85.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 87.9 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 820 kg | 1465 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 4960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2720 mm |
