1997 Jeep Cherokee vs. 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt is newer by 12 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, 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt (156 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1997 Jeep Cherokee. (120 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt should accelerate faster than 1997 Jeep Cherokee. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt weights approximately 40 kg more than 1997 Jeep Cherokee. 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, 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt, 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, 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt (203 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Jeep Cherokee. (194 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Jeep Cherokee.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Jeep Cherokee | 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt | |
| Make | Jeep | Chevrolet |
| Model | Cherokee | Cobalt |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2463 cc | 2201 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 156 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 194 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1420 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2630 mm |
