1997 Jeep Cherokee vs. 1980 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 1997 Jeep Cherokee is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mazda RX-7 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 16 more horse power than 1980 Mazda RX-7. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Jeep Cherokee should accelerate faster than 1980 Mazda RX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Jeep Cherokee weights approximately 370 kg more than 1980 Mazda RX-7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Jeep Cherokee is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 Mazda RX-7. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Jeep Cherokee will offer significantly more control. 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 1980 Mazda RX-7. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Jeep Cherokee will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mazda RX-7. 1997 Jeep Cherokee has automatic transmission and 1980 Mazda RX-7 has manual transmission. 1980 Mazda RX-7 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 | 1980 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Jeep | Mazda |
| Model | Cherokee | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1980 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2464 cc | 2292 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 195 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2430 mm |
