1997 Jeep Cherokee vs. 1966 Jeep CJ5
To start off, 1997 Jeep Cherokee is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Jeep CJ5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Jeep CJ5 would be higher. At 2,464 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Jeep Cherokee is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Jeep Cherokee (120 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1966 Jeep CJ5. (59 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Jeep Cherokee should accelerate faster than 1966 Jeep CJ5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Jeep Cherokee weights approximately 400 kg more than 1966 Jeep CJ5. 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, 1997 Jeep Cherokee (195 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Jeep CJ5. (145 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1997 Jeep Cherokee will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Jeep CJ5. 1997 Jeep Cherokee has automatic transmission and 1966 Jeep CJ5 has manual transmission. 1966 Jeep CJ5 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Jeep Cherokee will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Jeep Cherokee | 1966 Jeep CJ5 | |
| Make | Jeep | Jeep |
| Model | Cherokee | CJ5 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1966 |
| Body Type | SUV | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2464 cc | 2199 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 195 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 3520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1550 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2060 mm |
