1997 Jeep Wrangler vs. 2008 Kia Sorento
To start off, 2008 Kia Sorento is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Jeep Wrangler. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Jeep Wrangler would be higher. At 3,964 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Jeep Wrangler is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Kia Sorento (262 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 1997 Jeep Wrangler. (175 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Kia Sorento should accelerate faster than 1997 Jeep Wrangler. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Jeep Wrangler weights approximately 190 kg more than 2008 Kia Sorento.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Kia Sorento (353 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Jeep Wrangler. (291 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 Kia Sorento will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Jeep Wrangler. 2008 Kia Sorento has automatic transmission and 1997 Jeep Wrangler has manual transmission. 1997 Jeep Wrangler will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Kia Sorento will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Jeep Wrangler | 2008 Kia Sorento | |
| Make | Jeep | Kia |
| Model | Wrangler | Sorento |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Body Type | SUV | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3964 cc | 3778 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 262 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 353 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1475 kg | 1285 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1820 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2380 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 80 L |
