1971 Jeep CJ vs. 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee
To start off, 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Jeep CJ. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Jeep CJ would be higher. At 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee (290 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 231 more horse power than 1971 Jeep CJ. (59 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee should accelerate faster than 1971 Jeep CJ. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee weights approximately 1168 kg more than 1971 Jeep CJ. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee (352 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 207 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Jeep CJ. (145 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Jeep CJ. 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee has automatic transmission and 1971 Jeep CJ has manual transmission. 1971 Jeep CJ will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Jeep CJ | 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee | |
| Make | Jeep | Jeep |
| Model | CJ | Grand Cherokee |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2199 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 290 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 352 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Flex Fuel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed shiftable automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1032 kg | 2200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3520 mm | 4821 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1943 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1740 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2060 mm | 2916 mm |
