1997 Jeep Cherokee vs. 2005 Mazda 3
To start off, 2005 Mazda 3 is newer by 8 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 16 more horse power than 2005 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Jeep Cherokee should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Jeep Cherokee weights approximately 35 kg more than 2005 Mazda 3. 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, 2005 Mazda 3, 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 48 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda 3. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Jeep Cherokee will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Jeep Cherokee | 2005 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Jeep | Mazda |
| Model | Cherokee | 3 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2005 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2463 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 194 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 98.3 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| 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 | 1345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2650 mm |
