1998 BMW 323 vs. 1997 Kia Potentia
To start off, 1998 BMW 323 is newer by 1 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 6 more horse power than 1998 BMW 323. (168 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Kia Potentia should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 323 weights approximately 110 kg more than 1997 Kia Potentia.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1998 BMW 323 (245 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Kia Potentia. (186 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Kia Potentia.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 323 | 1997 Kia Potentia | |
| Make | BMW | Kia |
| Model | 323 | Potentia |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 174 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 186 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 1485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2720 mm |
