2006 Kia Spectra vs. 1997 Kia Potentia
To start off, 2006 Kia Spectra is newer by 9 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 36 more horse power than 2006 Kia Spectra. (138 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Kia Potentia should accelerate faster than 2006 Kia Spectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Kia Potentia weights approximately 5 kg more than 2006 Kia Spectra. 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, 2006 Kia Spectra, 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, 1997 Kia Potentia (186 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Kia Spectra. (184 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1997 Kia Potentia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Kia Spectra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Kia Spectra | 1997 Kia Potentia | |
| Make | Kia | Kia |
| Model | Spectra | Potentia |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 174 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 184 Nm | 186 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2720 mm |
