1997 Kia Potentia vs. 1998 Mazda 323
To start off, 1998 Mazda 323 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Kia Potentia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Kia Potentia would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Kia Potentia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Kia Potentia (174 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Kia Potentia should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Kia Potentia weights approximately 370 kg more than 1998 Mazda 323. 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, 1998 Mazda 323, 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 (186 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (162 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Kia Potentia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Kia Potentia | 1998 Mazda 323 | |
Make | Kia | Mazda |
Model | Potentia | 323 |
Year Released | 1997 | 1998 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1840 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 174 HP | 114 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 186 Nm | 162 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 1115 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4960 mm | 4210 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2620 mm |