I checked the part numbers for front and rear '96 diffs.

The bearings, adjusters, pinion crush sleeve and a few other parts are the same.

It looks like there is a very good probability that a 97 and older rear diffs will fit the front of any year Sportage. The 26 spline Eaton should also fit.

This also means that the Miata Torsen should fit the rear 97 and older Sportages.

Maraguez.....do you want to be the victim to try a Sportage rear in your front? I think you will still have to use your old front housing.

Ron

Ron Schroeder
Long Island NY
99 4DR auto Sportage, 30x950R15 tires, 3/4" strut spacer, rear air springs, Manual Hubs, FRONT Torsen LSD
00 Safari AWD, 2" lift, 30x9.50 tires, 4x4 conversion in progress
73 Pinzgauer Swiss Army troop carrier