1997 Kia Potentia vs. 2007 Mazda 3
To start off, 2007 Mazda 3 is newer by 10 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 70 more horse power than 2007 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Kia Potentia should accelerate faster than 2007 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Kia Potentia weights approximately 300 kg more than 2007 Mazda 3. 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, 2007 Mazda 3, 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 41 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Kia Potentia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Kia Potentia | 2007 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Kia | Mazda |
| Model | Potentia | 3 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1594 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 174 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 1185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4960 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2650 mm |
