1997 Kia Potentia vs. 2008 Hyundai Sonata
To start off, 2008 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 11 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 3,342 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Hyundai Sonata (232 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1997 Kia Potentia. (174 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1997 Kia Potentia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 161 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, 2008 Hyundai Sonata, 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, 2008 Hyundai Sonata (304 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 118 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Kia Potentia. (186 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Kia Potentia. 2008 Hyundai Sonata has automatic transmission and 1997 Kia Potentia has manual transmission. 1997 Kia Potentia will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Hyundai Sonata will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Kia Potentia | 2008 Hyundai Sonata | |
Make | Kia | Hyundai |
Model | Potentia | Sonata |
Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2497 cc | 3342 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 174 HP | 232 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 186 Nm | 304 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 1646 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4960 mm | 4810 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1840 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1480 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2740 mm |