1997 Jeep Cherokee vs. 2008 Subaru Outback
To start off, 2008 Subaru Outback is newer by 11 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, 2008 Subaru Outback (171 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1997 Jeep Cherokee. (120 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Subaru Outback should accelerate faster than 1997 Jeep Cherokee. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Jeep Cherokee weights approximately 5 kg more than 2008 Subaru Outback.
Because 2008 Subaru Outback is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Jeep Cherokee. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Subaru Outback 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, 2008 Subaru Outback (231 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Jeep Cherokee. (194 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Subaru Outback will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Jeep Cherokee.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Jeep Cherokee | 2008 Subaru Outback | |
| Make | Jeep | Subaru |
| Model | Cherokee | Outback |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Body Type | SUV | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2463 cc | 2457 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 171 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 194 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1375 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2680 mm |
