1997 Kia Potentia vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 8 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 2,034 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A (190 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1997 Kia Potentia. (138 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1997 Kia Potentia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Kia Potentia weights approximately 190 kg more than 2005 Mercedes-Benz A.
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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A, 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 99 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Kia Potentia. (182 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Kia Potentia.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Kia Potentia | 2005 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Potentia | A |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2034 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.1 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87.9 mm | 94 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 | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1465 kg | 1275 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4960 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2570 mm |
