1983 Ford Fiesta vs. 1997 Jeep Cherokee
To start off, 1997 Jeep Cherokee is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Ford Fiesta would be higher. At 2,463 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Jeep Cherokee is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Jeep Cherokee (120 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1983 Ford Fiesta. (53 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Jeep Cherokee should accelerate faster than 1983 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Jeep Cherokee weights approximately 545 kg more than 1983 Ford Fiesta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Jeep Cherokee 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 Jeep Cherokee. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 Ford Fiesta, 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 Jeep Cherokee (194 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 99 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Ford Fiesta. (95 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Jeep Cherokee will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Ford Fiesta | 1997 Jeep Cherokee | |
| Make | Ford | Jeep |
| Model | Fiesta | Cherokee |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1608 cc | 2463 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 95 Nm | 194 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 98.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 81 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 835 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1640 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2580 mm |
