1997 Jeep Cherokee vs. 2003 Nissan Xterra
To start off, 2003 Nissan Xterra 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 2,464 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Jeep Cherokee is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Nissan Xterra (141 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1997 Jeep Cherokee. (120 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Nissan Xterra should accelerate faster than 1997 Jeep Cherokee. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Nissan Xterra weights approximately 150 kg more than 1997 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, 2003 Nissan Xterra (209 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Jeep Cherokee. (195 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Nissan Xterra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Jeep Cherokee. 1997 Jeep Cherokee has automatic transmission and 2003 Nissan Xterra has manual transmission. 2003 Nissan Xterra 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 | 2003 Nissan Xterra | |
| Make | Jeep | Nissan |
| Model | Cherokee | Xterra |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2003 |
| Body Type | SUV | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2464 cc | 2393 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 195 Nm | 209 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 98.3 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 96 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1580 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1890 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2660 mm |
