1997 Kia Potentia vs. 2003 Opel Signum
To start off, 2003 Opel Signum is newer by 6 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 3,173 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Opel Signum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Signum (208 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1997 Kia Potentia. (138 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1997 Kia Potentia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Signum weights approximately 145 kg more than 1997 Kia Potentia. 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, 2003 Opel Signum, 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, 2003 Opel Signum (300 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 118 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Kia Potentia. (182 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Kia Potentia.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Kia Potentia | 2003 Opel Signum | |
| Make | Kia | Opel |
| Model | Potentia | Signum |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 3173 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.1 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87.9 mm | 88 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1465 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4960 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2740 mm |
