1997 Jeep Cherokee vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf 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 Volkswagen Golf (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1997 Jeep Cherokee. (120 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1997 Jeep Cherokee. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Jeep Cherokee weights approximately 7 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Golf.
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, 2008 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Jeep Cherokee. (194 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Jeep Cherokee.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Jeep Cherokee | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Jeep | Volkswagen |
Model | Cherokee | Golf |
Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2463 cc | 1984 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 120 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 194 Nm | 200 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 98.3 mm | 82.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 92.8 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 | 1373 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4210 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1590 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2580 mm |