2004 Kia Optima vs. 1997 Kia Potentia
To start off, 2004 Kia Optima is newer by 7 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 2,360 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Kia Potentia (138 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 2004 Kia Optima. (137 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Kia Potentia should accelerate faster than 2004 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Kia Optima weights approximately 23 kg more than 1997 Kia Potentia.
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, 2004 Kia Optima, 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, 2004 Kia Optima (199 Nm) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Kia Potentia. (182 Nm). This means 2004 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Kia Potentia.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Kia Optima | 1997 Kia Potentia | |
Make | Kia | Kia |
Model | Optima | Potentia |
Year Released | 2004 | 1997 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2360 cc | 1998 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 137 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 199 Nm | 182 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 87.1 mm | 85.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 100 mm | 87.9 mm |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1488 kg | 1465 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4960 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2720 mm |