1997 Jeep Cherokee vs. 2006 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 9 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 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Jeep Cherokee is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 1997 Jeep Cherokee. (114 HP @ 3900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1997 Jeep Cherokee. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Jeep Cherokee weights approximately 92 kg more than 2006 Mazda RX-8.
Because 1997 Jeep Cherokee is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2006 Mazda RX-8. 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 (283 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1997 Jeep Cherokee will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda RX-8. 1997 Jeep Cherokee has automatic transmission and 2006 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2006 Mazda RX-8 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 | 2006 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Jeep | Mazda |
| Model | Cherokee | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2006 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2500 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3900 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 283 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1520 kg | 1428 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2710 mm |
