1987 Jeep Cherokee vs. 2004 Jeep Wrangler
To start off, 2004 Jeep Wrangler is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Jeep Cherokee. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Jeep Cherokee would be higher. At 2,499 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Jeep Wrangler is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Jeep Wrangler (150 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 1987 Jeep Cherokee. (87 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Jeep Wrangler should accelerate faster than 1987 Jeep Cherokee. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Jeep Wrangler weights approximately 18 kg more than 1987 Jeep Cherokee. 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, 2004 Jeep Wrangler (224 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Jeep Cherokee. (180 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 2004 Jeep Wrangler will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Jeep Cherokee.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Jeep Cherokee | 2004 Jeep Wrangler | |
| Make | Jeep | Jeep |
| Model | Cherokee | Wrangler |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2004 |
| Body Type | SUV | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2068 cc | 2499 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 87 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 224 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89 mm | 101 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1452 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1710 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2380 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 72 L |
