1997 Kia Potentia vs. 2012 Chevrolet Sonic
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic is newer by 15 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 36 more horse power than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic. (138 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Kia Potentia should accelerate faster than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic.
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, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic, 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 17 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic. (169 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1997 Kia Potentia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Chevrolet Sonic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Kia Potentia | 2012 Chevrolet Sonic | |
Make | Kia | Chevrolet |
Model | Potentia | Sonic |
Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1800 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 174 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
Torque | 186 Nm | 169 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4960 mm | 4039 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1735 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1516 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2525 mm |