1997 Jeep Cherokee vs. 2012 GMC Savana
To start off, 2012 GMC Savana is newer by 15 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 4,800 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 GMC Savana is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 GMC Savana (280 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 166 more horse power than 1997 Jeep Cherokee. (114 HP @ 3900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 GMC Savana should accelerate faster than 1997 Jeep Cherokee. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 GMC Savana weights approximately 1144 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 four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 GMC Savana. 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, 2012 GMC Savana (400 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 117 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Jeep Cherokee. (283 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2012 GMC Savana will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Jeep Cherokee.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Jeep Cherokee | 2012 GMC Savana | |
| Make | Jeep | GMC |
| Model | Cherokee | Savana |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Van |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2500 cc | 4800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 280 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3900 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 283 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Flex Fuel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1520 kg | 2664 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 5692 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 2012 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 2070 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 3429 mm |
