1997 Jeep Cherokee vs. 2003 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Golf 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, 1997 Jeep Cherokee (120 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Jeep Cherokee should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Jeep Cherokee weights approximately 270 kg more than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. 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 2003 Volkswagen Golf. 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 39 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. (156 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1997 Jeep Cherokee will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. 1997 Jeep Cherokee has automatic transmission and 2003 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2003 Volkswagen Golf 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 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Jeep | Volkswagen |
| Model | Cherokee | Golf |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2003 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2464 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 195 Nm | 156 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 98.3 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 86.9 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2860 mm |
