1997 Kia Potentia vs. 2005 Mercury Mariner
To start off, 2005 Mercury Mariner 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 2,999 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercury Mariner is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercury Mariner (200 HP) has 62 more horse power than 1997 Kia Potentia. (138 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercury Mariner should accelerate faster than 1997 Kia Potentia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercury Mariner weights approximately 34 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, 2005 Mercury Mariner, 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 Mercury Mariner (262 Nm) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Kia Potentia. (182 Nm). This means 2005 Mercury Mariner will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Kia Potentia.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Kia Potentia | 2005 Mercury Mariner | |
| Make | Kia | Mercury |
| Model | Potentia | Mariner |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 200 HP |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 262 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1465 kg | 1499 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4960 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2630 mm |
