1999 Kia Potentia vs. 2004 Mazda 3
To start off, 2004 Mazda 3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Kia Potentia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Kia Potentia would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Kia Potentia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Kia Potentia (138 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 2004 Mazda 3. (99 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Kia Potentia should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Kia Potentia weights approximately 384 kg more than 2004 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 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 1999 Kia Potentia. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 1999 Kia Potentia (181 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1999 Kia Potentia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Kia Potentia | 2004 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Kia | Mazda |
| Model | Potentia | 3 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 181 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.1 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87.9 mm | 83.6 mm |
| 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 | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 1086 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4960 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2650 mm |
