1997 Kia Potentia vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A (190 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1997 Kia Potentia. (174 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 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 180 kg more than 2012 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, 2012 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Kia Potentia. (186 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 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 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Potentia | A |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 2034 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 174 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| 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 | 1485 kg | 1305 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 |
