1997 Jeep Cherokee vs. 2003 Mazda 2
To start off, 2003 Mazda 2 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Jeep Cherokee. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Jeep Cherokee 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 53 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 2. (67 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Jeep Cherokee should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Jeep Cherokee weights approximately 295 kg more than 2003 Mazda 2. 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, 2003 Mazda 2, 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 26 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 2. (168 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1997 Jeep Cherokee will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 2.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Jeep Cherokee | 2003 Mazda 2 | |
| Make | Jeep | Mazda |
| Model | Cherokee | 2 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2003 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2463 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 67 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 194 Nm | 168 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 98.3 mm | 73.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 82 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1085 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 3930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2500 mm |
