2003 Hyundai Matrix vs. 1999 Kia Sportage
To start off, 2003 Hyundai Matrix is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Kia Sportage. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Kia Sportage would be higher. At 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Kia Sportage is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Kia Sportage (126 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2003 Hyundai Matrix. (104 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Kia Sportage should accelerate faster than 2003 Hyundai Matrix. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Kia Sportage weights approximately 232 kg more than 2003 Hyundai Matrix. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 Kia Sportage is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Hyundai Matrix. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Kia Sportage will offer significantly more control. 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 Sportage (175 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Hyundai Matrix. (144 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1999 Kia Sportage will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Hyundai Matrix.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Hyundai Matrix | 1999 Kia Sportage | |
| Make | Hyundai | Kia |
| Model | Matrix | Sportage |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1606 cc | 1996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 126 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.5 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1457 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1660 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2660 mm |
