The Daewoo Prince 2.0i, produced between 1993 and 1999, represented a significant step for the South Korean automaker into the mid-size sedan market. Positioned as a more upscale offering within the Daewoo lineup, the Prince aimed to provide a comfortable and relatively well-equipped vehicle for families and business users. This variant, powered by a 2.0-liter inline-four engine producing 116 horsepower and paired with a four-speed automatic transmission, was a popular choice for those prioritizing ease of driving over outright performance. The Prince was largely based on the underpinnings of the previous generation Holden Commodore (VK series) due to Daewoo’s ownership of Holden at the time, and was primarily sold in South Korea, with limited exports to select markets.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Daewoo |
| Model | Prince |
| Generation | Prince |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0i (116 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1993 |
| End of production | 1999 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Maximum speed | 185 km/h (114.95 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.9 kg/Hp, 92.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.4 kg/Nm, 134.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 116 Hp @ 5200 rpm |
| Power per litre | 58.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 170 Nm @ 2600 rpm (125.39 lb.-ft. @ 2600 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine displacement | 1998 cm3 (121.93 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 86 mm (3.39 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 86 mm (3.39 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.2:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | OHC |
| Kerb Weight | 1260 kg (2777.82 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 460 l (16.24 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| Length | 4802 mm (189.06 in.) |
| Width | 1720 mm (67.72 in.) |
| Height | 1417 mm (55.79 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2670 mm (105.12 in.) |
| Front track | 1435 mm (56.5 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1412 mm (55.59 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 195/70 R14 |
| Wheel rims size | 14 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Prince 2.0i was the 4-cylinder, 1998cc (121.93 cu. in.) inline engine. This engine, often referred to by its internal code, utilized a single overhead camshaft (OHC) valvetrain with two valves per cylinder. Fuel delivery was managed by a multi-port fuel injection system, a relatively modern feature for the early 1990s, contributing to improved fuel efficiency and smoother operation compared to carbureted engines. The engine produced 116 horsepower at 5200 rpm and 170 Nm (125.39 lb.-ft.) of torque at 2600 rpm. The four-speed automatic transmission was a conventional hydraulic unit, offering smooth but not particularly quick shifts. It was designed for comfort and ease of use rather than sporty performance. The transmission’s gear ratios were optimized for relaxed cruising and fuel economy, rather than aggressive acceleration.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.0i automatic Prince offered a comfortable and predictable driving experience. Acceleration was adequate for everyday driving, but not particularly brisk. The automatic transmission, while smooth, lacked the responsiveness of a manual gearbox, and the relatively tall gear ratios prioritized fuel economy over performance. The rear-wheel-drive configuration provided a balanced feel, but the suspension was tuned for comfort, resulting in some body roll during cornering. Compared to the manual transmission versions of the Prince, the automatic was noticeably slower, and any higher-output engines (available in some export markets) offered a significantly more engaging driving experience. The steering was light and easy, making it well-suited for urban driving, but it lacked the feedback desired by more enthusiastic drivers. Overall, the driving experience was geared towards practicality and comfort rather than performance.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Daewoo Prince 2.0i typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features for its price point. These included power steering, air conditioning, and a basic audio system. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for upgraded materials available on higher trim levels. The dashboard layout was functional and straightforward, with clearly labeled controls. Optional extras could include power windows, central locking, and an upgraded sound system. Some models also offered a sunroof and upgraded interior trim. The Prince aimed to offer a comfortable and practical interior without excessive luxury, focusing on providing essential features for everyday use. The trim levels were generally differentiated by the addition of convenience features and cosmetic enhancements.
Chassis & Braking
The Prince utilized a conventional chassis design with a wishbone front suspension and a coil spring rear suspension. The front brakes were discs, providing adequate stopping power, while the rear brakes were drums, a cost-saving measure common in vehicles of this era. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was included as a standard safety feature, enhancing braking performance and stability, particularly on slippery surfaces. The suspension was tuned for ride comfort, prioritizing a smooth and compliant ride over sporty handling. Stabilizer bars were present, but relatively modest in size, contributing to the car’s overall comfort-oriented character. The rear-wheel-drive layout contributed to a balanced feel, but the suspension setup wasn’t designed for aggressive cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Daewoo Prince 2.0i was generally well-received in its primary market of South Korea. Critics praised its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and relatively affordable price. However, the automatic transmission was sometimes criticized for its lack of responsiveness. Compared to other mid-size sedans available at the time, such as the Hyundai Sonata and Kia Concord, the Prince offered a good value proposition, but it lacked the brand recognition and established reputation of Japanese competitors like Toyota and Honda. Fuel economy was respectable for a 2.0-liter engine of that era, and reliability was generally considered to be average, though not exceptional. The Prince positioned itself as a comfortable and practical alternative to more established brands.
Legacy
The Daewoo Prince, while not a groundbreaking vehicle, played an important role in establishing Daewoo as a credible automaker. The 2.0i automatic variant, while not the most exciting version of the Prince, was a popular choice for buyers seeking a comfortable and reliable family sedan. Today, the Prince is a relatively rare sight on the roads, but it has gained a following among classic car enthusiasts in South Korea. The powertrain, while not known for exceptional durability, is generally considered to be reasonably reliable with proper maintenance. Parts availability can be a challenge, but dedicated owners’ clubs and online forums can provide valuable resources for sourcing replacement components. The Prince represents a unique chapter in the history of the South Korean automotive industry, and its legacy continues to be appreciated by those who remember it fondly. It serves as a reminder of Daewoo’s ambition to compete on the global automotive stage.
