1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee vs. 2012 Chevrolet Traverse
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Traverse is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee would be higher. At 3,960 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Traverse (281 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee. (175 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Traverse should accelerate faster than 1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Chevrolet Traverse weights approximately 303 kg more than 1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Chevrolet Traverse. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Jeep Grand 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 Chevrolet Traverse (360 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee. (301 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Traverse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee | 2012 Chevrolet Traverse | |
| Make | Jeep | Chevrolet |
| Model | Grand Cherokee | Traverse |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Crossover |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3960 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 281 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 301 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1810 kg | 2113 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 5207 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1991 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1710 mm | 1849 mm |
