2003 Opel Astra vs. 1997 Kia Potentia
To start off, 2003 Opel Astra is newer by 6 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 29 more horse power than 2003 Opel Astra. (145 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Kia Potentia should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Kia Potentia weights approximately 187 kg more than 2003 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2003 Opel Astra, 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, 2003 Opel Astra (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Kia Potentia. (186 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Kia Potentia.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Opel Astra | 1997 Kia Potentia | |
| Make | Opel | Kia |
| Model | Astra | Potentia |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 174 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 186 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1298 kg | 1485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4120 mm | 4960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2720 mm |
