1997 Jeep Cherokee vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf 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 2,463 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Jeep Cherokee is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Jeep Cherokee (120 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (104 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Jeep Cherokee should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 121 kg more than 1997 Jeep Cherokee.
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, 2012 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, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (250 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Jeep Cherokee. (194 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 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 | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Jeep | Volkswagen |
Model | Cherokee | Golf |
Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2463 cc | 1600 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 120 HP | 104 HP |
Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Torque | 194 Nm | 250 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1501 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4246 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1782 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1423 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2578 mm |